Saudi Super Cup featured in HK for the first time
The four-team tournament will take place from August 19 to 23 at the Hong Kong Stadium. Photo: RTHK
Hong Kong will make history next month by hosting the first-ever Saudi Super Cup to be staged in East Asia, and could potentially feature superstar Cristiano Ronaldo.
The four-team tournament will take place from August 19 to 23 at the Hong Kong Stadium.
The action kicks off on August 19 with a highly anticipated clash between league champions Al-Ittihad and Al-Nassr, whose squad currently includes Ronaldo.
The following day sees last year's Super Cup champions Al-Hilal face off against Al-Qadsiah.
The tournament culminates with the final on August 23.
Eric Fok, chairman of the Football Association of Hong Kong, China, hailed the event as a significant milestone, proving the SAR's capability to stage major international sporting events.
He expressed strong confidence in a full house, citing Hong Kong's renowned passion for football.
"By hosting this event, I'm sure that we'll bring in lots of tourism. Secondly, Hong Kong, we have a big heart for developing sports, especially in football," he said.
"Recently, a local team playing against India, we had a filled-up stadium and it really reflects the passion for Hong Kong people for football."
Fok added that the tournament also signifies deepening ties between Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia.
"I believe this is only the beginning. This arise from last November [when] we signed the MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) to see how do we cooperate and partner going forward," he said.
"We know Saudi Arabia is hosting the 2034 World Cup and they are preparing for that.
"In terms of the team, in terms of the federation of preparing for this world-scale tournament , there's many areas that Hong Kong can learn and cooperate with them. I believe this cup just symbolises the partnership that we have. Going forward, it should be more exciting for Hong Kong football."
Tickets for the tournament will go on sale from July 15.
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