One goal makes the difference as Hong Kong pip North Korea to reach EAFF Championship finals
- Hong Kong end their campaign with two wins and a draw
- Hong Kong and North Korea finish on the same goal difference but Hong Kong score a goal more
Hong Kong smashed Mongolia 5-1 and then experienced an emotional ride to qualify for the East Asian Football Federation (EAFF) Championship by the slimmest of margins in Taipei on Friday night.
Having dispatched Mongolia in an earlier game at the Taipei Municipal Stadium, Gary White’s charges were hoping rivals North Korea – needing three clear goals to win the tournament on goal difference – would trip up in the final match of the second round qualifiers. North Korea fell short, beating Taiwan 2-0, which was not enough as the final whistle blew to the massive relief of the Hong Kong team and their faithful 30-strong supporters.
In the end, Hong Kong and North Korea both finished on seven points with an identical goal difference, but Hong Kong scored a goal more and that made the difference.
Brazilian-born forward Sandro scored two goals, including a glorious 24th minute free kick, while Jaimes McKee, Festus Baise and Dani Cancela got on the scoresheet as well.
Coach Gary White was delighted with his charges as Hong Kong made it two victories and one draw in the Taipei qualifiers that began last Sunday. Hong Kong will join Asian giants Japan, South Korea and China in next year’s finals
