Hong Kong First Division clubs face stern examinations after being drawn unfavourably in both Asian club tournaments next season.
The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) announced the draw yesterday and presented a bleak picture for Hong Kong clubs entering the Asian Club Championship and the Asian Cup Winners' Championship.
Earlier this season, Eastern bowed out in the first round of the Asian Club Championship to Japan's Verdy Kawasaki 6-0 on aggregate and Uhlsport-Rangers also had little success in the Asian Cup Winners' Championship, losing to another Japanese team, Yokohama Flugels, 7-3 on aggregate in the second round.
Senior Shield champions South China have drawn Malaysia's Sabah in the first round of the Asian Cup Winners' Championship with the first leg tentatively scheduled for August 24 and the second on September 7.
South China are expected to overcome their first hurdle but they will have a much tougher time in the second round where they will meet Japanese J.League club Nagoya Grampus Eight.
With the Hong Kong First Division still undecided, South China may have to forfeit their place in the Asian Cup.
South China would have to concentrate on the Asian Club tourney if they win the league as well.
