Michael Udebuluzor, the Hong Kong striker, is determined to put behind him a period of exhaustion and controversy as he prepares for a crucial Asian Cup qualifier against Singapore. The match, slated for next Tuesday at a sold-out Kai Tak Stadium, is being billed as a "do-or-die" clash for Hong Kong's qualification hopes.

Udebuluzor, who plays club football for JK Tallinna Kalev in Estonia, admitted to feeling the effects of jet lag and fatigue during Hong Kong's recent 1-1 friendly draw with Cambodia. He was substituted after 55 minutes, citing breathing difficulties. "I arrived on Sunday night and have barely slept. I'm still jet-lagged and exhausted," the 21-year-old explained. However, he reassured fans that he expects to be in better condition by Tuesday, stating, "By Tuesday, my system will have started functioning properly".

Beyond the physical challenges, Udebuluzor is also seeking to fully restore his relationship with Hong Kong fans after a past incident. He was excluded from the national squad in September and October as punishment for using inappropriate language towards Chinese supporters following Hong Kong's 1-0 defeat by China in the East Asian finals in July. Now back in the fold, Udebuluzor is eager to prove his commitment to the team and the fans. "I love coming back to Hong Kong. It feels good to wear the jersey again and I want to give everything," he affirmed.

The equation for Hong Kong is simple: a victory against Singapore will secure their place in the 2027 AFC Asian Cup finals in Saudi Arabia. A defeat, however, would hand Singapore the qualification. A draw would leave both teams' fate hanging until the final round of matches in March, where Hong Kong faces India away and Singapore plays Bangladesh at home. Both Hong Kong and Singapore currently have eight points and a goal difference of plus two in Group C.

Udebuluzor is keenly aware of the significance of the upcoming match. "If we win, we qualify; if we lose, we cry, and I don't want to cry," he stated. He also expressed his desire to contribute to a victory in front of a home crowd. "I want to play because I want to win for Hong Kong. There could be zero people watching, and I'd want to win," he said. "But, hopefully, we can use the 50,000 fans to our advantage. They will push us and make the other team nervous".

Hong Kong played a friendly match against Cambodia on Thursday night, which ended in a 1-1 draw. Wong Wai scored for Hong Kong in the 30th minute, but Cambodia quickly equalized. The Football Association of Hong Kong, China (HKFA) has announced that the players will share HK$1 million in prize money if they defeat Singapore.

Udebuluzor earned his first cap for Hong Kong in September 2023, shortly after obtaining his passport. He has since accumulated 20 caps for the national team. As Hong Kong prepares for this crucial qualifier, the team and their supporters will be hoping that Udebuluzor can overcome his exhaustion and play a key role in securing a coveted spot in the 2027 Asian Cup.