Hong Kong keeper’s Kai Tak debut a ‘dream come true’, focus on winner-takes-all Asian clash

Hong Kong goalkeeper Tse Ka-wing acknowledged that qualifying for the 2027 Asian Cup finals has become “a little bit complicated”, ahead of next month’s win-and-you're-in home clash with Singapore.

Victory for either side on November 18 would seal their spot in Saudi Arabia, while a draw would send the qualification argument to the final round of group matches in March.

Hong Kong’s timid 1-1 draw with Bangladesh on Tuesday opened the door to Singapore, and they walked right through it with a 2-1 win in India to draw level on eight points at the top of the group.

“Qualification is getting closer, it’s a little bit complicated after the Bangladesh result, but it’s in our hands,” Tse said. “We don’t have to think too much, our focus is already on the next game and we’re looking forward to it.”

Tse made his Kai Tak Stadium debut against Bangladesh after regular No 1 Yapp Hung-fai tore his right anterior cruciate ligament in the away victory over the same opponents last week.

On the eve of the game, head coach Ashley Westwood underlined his faith in the Tai Po keeper by saying “half of Lan Kwai Fong” would vouch for Tse’s self-belief.