Hong Kong fans observe minute’s silence in memory of Chow Tsz-lok, applaud Bahrain national anthem and boo China anthem
- Around 4,500 fans attend the World Cup qualifier against Bahrain, which goes ahead at Hong Kong Stadium despite social unrest
Chow Tsz-lok, 22, suffered severe brain injuries after falling from a Tseung Kwan O car park on November 4 following a confrontation between protesters and police.
The mark of respect occurred on the 22nd minute of the match at Hong Kong Stadium, in tribute to Chow’s age.
Ahead of the match, fans were seen applauding the Bahraini national anthem before defying the Hong Kong Football Association’s (HKFA) calls earlier in the week and openly jeering and booing the Chinese anthem.
Fans from the So Kon Po arena’s East stand – filled with neutral and Power of Hong Kong supporters – were also seen holding sheets of paper saying “Free Hong Kong” and gesturing “five demands, not one less” during the anthem. One sign also included the slogan in Arabic.
Instead of booing, some from other stands opted to turn their backs, cross their arms and raise their middle fingers in the air.
Despite increased police reinforcement and the tense political climate of late, fans did not appear too nervous ahead of the match.