They can be heroes: Hong Kong coach raises stakes for Asia Cup showdown in North Korea

Goalkeeper from the historic 1985 triumph over China says a victory in the Asian Cup qualifier in Pyongyang would give fans something else to talk about

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Hong Kong caretaker manager Liu Chun-fai has urged his players to make claim their own piece of history against North Korea. Photos: Chan Kin-wa

Published: 12:59pm, 20 Mar 2018Updated: 10:37pm, 20 Mar 2018

One of the heroes of Hong Kong’s historic 1985 triumph over China has called on the new generation to create another legacy by beating North Korea in their Asian Cup qualifier in Pyongyang next week.

Now caretaker coach of the Hong Kong team, Liu Chun-fai was part of the 1985 squad who beat China 2-1 in Beijing on May 19 to knock the mainlanders out of the World Cup qualifiers for the 1986 tournament.

That squad is now part of local sporting folklore and he wants the Hong Kong team to also make history.

Tong Kin-man in training with the Hong Kong squad following his call-up.

“We want people to talk about this team after next week’s game,” said Liu, one of the best domestic goalkeepers of his era.

“People have been talking about the match against China for over three decades. We defeated a strong opponent in an away match and brought home the honour. The term ‘519’ (May 19) has become the household name of Hong Kong soccer.

“This is the same situation we face against North Korea and I want to see the same thing happen. Fans will then be talking ‘327’ (March 27) rather than only ‘519’.