Hong Kong Premier League: Kitchee Begins Title Defence Against BC Rangers
SCMP · 1 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago1 MIN
Summary
Kitchee launch their Hong Kong Premier League title defence on Saturday away at BC Rangers, with six clubs under new managers as the competition expands to 11 teams . Australian Giancarlo Italiano makes his Lee Man managerial debut against Wofoo Kowloon City on Sunday, while promoted side Supreme Sha Tin face Eastern on Friday night .
Key Points
- Kitchee, coached by Inigo Calderon, open their campaign at Tseung Kwan O Sports Ground against BC Rangers on Saturday
- Lee Man appointed Australian Giancarlo Italiano, former Wellington Phoenix boss, who begins tenure at home to Wofoo Kowloon City on Sunday
- The league restored a regular home-and-away calendar, replacing last season's championship and challenge rounds
- Eleven clubs compete this term with Supreme Sha Tin promoted and Football Club given a second chance after last season's relegation
- Kitchee's summer recruits include Everton Camargo and Dudu from Lee Man, plus former Tai Po defender Marcao
Why It Matters
Kitchee must balance domestic dominance with an AFC Champions League 2 campaign that will test their squad depth, while the league's structural overhaul aims to provide more competitive balance across all 11 clubs throughout the nine-month season .
Kitchee must balance domestic dominance with an AFC Champions League 2 campaign that will test their squad depth, while the league's structural overhaul aims to provide more competitive balance across all 11 clubs throughout the nine-month season .