Interview Report -- Special to Xinhua News Agency
Hong Kong, China men's soccer team will face Afghanistan in the first match of the Asian Cup qualifier on the 8th. Fok Kai Shan, vice chairman of the Hong Kong Football Association and executive committee member of the AFC, revealed that the team's goal is aimed directly at the 2023 Asian Cup final round. He pointed out that despite being in Group D with India, Cambodia and other strong teams, but Hong Kong, China team is well prepared to break through.
The qualifying groupings show that 11 teams will progress to the Asian Cup through the top of the group and the second of the group with the better results. The team has trained intensively since head coach Andersson took over and are about to face their first major test since taking over.
During the epidemic, soccer activities in Hong Kong were restricted, but the Hong Kong, China team remained committed to regaining fitness and conducted intense technical and tactical training. Despite the recent defeat against Malaysia in a warm-up match, Fok Kai-san remains confident in the team.
Looking ahead, Fok Kai-san expects the team to show a new style under Anderson's leadership. Meanwhile, the Hong Kong, China men's soccer team will also take part in the East Asian Cup to be held in Japan in July to play against China, Japan and South Korea.
Fok Kai-san was elected Vice President at the EAF Congress and said he would strive to raise the standard of soccer in East Asia. The completion of the Kai Tak Sports Park in Hong Kong will provide more opportunities for the development of soccer in Asia.
Hong Kong player Tai Wai Chun showed his outstanding skills when he appeared in the World Cup Asian qualifying matches. Fok Kai-san expressed his support and emphasized that soccer cooperation between Hong Kong and the Mainland is vital for the development of both players and the game.
Hong Kong has a strong soccer atmosphere with numerous soccer fields and fans. Mr. Fok revealed that the HKFA is working hard to promote soccer and plans to attract more viewers through live television broadcasts to support the continued development of soccer.
Despite the headwinds that the epidemic has brought to the development of soccer in Hong Kong, the various departments of the FA have responded positively to ensure that Hong Kong soccer returns to the public eye as soon as possible. Fok Kai Shan said that the training of players and referees has continued through individual training programs and online courses, and looks forward to bringing more positive news to the Hong Kong soccer market in the future.
