AFC Asian Cup: head coach Andersen says Palestine game is his team’s final, vows to attack from start

Hong Kong remain in the fight for a last-16 spot at their first Asian Cup finals appearance since 1968

Andersen keeping fingers crossed over fitness of midfield pair, considering attacking changes

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Jorn Andersen delivered a positive media address ahead of Hong Kong’s crucial AFC Asian Cup finals clash with Palestine. Photo: Reuters

Published: 7:30am, 23 Jan 2024

Jorn Andersen has issued a compelling statement of intent on the eve of one of the biggest matches in Hong Kong’s recent history.

The city’s side take on Palestine in Doha on Tuesday, with hopes of reaching the last 16 of the Asian Cup at stake.

Calling the match a “final for Hong Kong...a pressure game”, the Norwegian promised his side would go all out to chase victory, after defeats against the United Arab Emirates and Iran drew praise for the performance, but produced one goal across 180 minutes.

“In those two games, we focused more on defending, now we have to be more dangerous up front,” Andersen said. “We had three or four big chances against Iran, but did not score. We must be stronger, and have better finishing.

“This is a final for Hong Kong. It is a pressure game … but I do not put pressure on the team. If we go to the next round, and are one of the best 16 teams in Asia, all of Hong Kong will be proud of us.”

Andersen is tipping Everton Camargo (left) to have a big influence on Hong Kong’s final group game in Doha. Photo: AFP

But the likelihood that goal difference will decide the best third-place group finishers could lead to Andersen compromising his approach, and striker Michael Udebuluzor, whose strengths lie in his speed, power and skill in front of goal, is pushing to start.