Hong Kong's under-16 footballers are setting their sights on a strong performance at the upcoming National Games, aiming to make their mark against formidable young talents from mainland China. The 15th National Games, a multi-sport event considered China's highest level of competition, will be co-hosted by Hong Kong, Guangzhou, and Macau from November 9 to 21, 2025.
The Hong Kong team is preparing diligently for the challenge. After wrapping up their preparation matches, which included a prestigious fixture against Manchester United, the team is set to travel to Meizhou on September 1, just two days before the under-16 football competition kicks off in Guangdong province.
Defender John Wai Yi-yeung, a key player in the Hong Kong squad, brings a wealth of experience from his football education on the mainland and in England. Wai attended the Evergrande Football School from the age of seven before moving to England's Brooke House Football Academy shortly after his 12th birthday. Brooke House Football Academy is also the alma mater of Hong Kong midfielder Tan Chun-lok.
Wai acknowledges the challenges that lie ahead but expresses confidence in his team's ability to compete. He stated that the team is excited to play and is not feeling too much pressure. Wai also mentioned that Hong Kong has never won a football medal at the National Games, so it's unlikely that they will win this time, but they are really going to try. The team's initial goal is to advance beyond the group stage.
Hong Kong faces a tough draw in their group, pitted against Chongqing, Shaanxi, and Zhejiang. These matches promise to be stern tests for the young Hong Kong team. The China under-16 team's recent success, drawing 17,000 fans to a match where they beat Australia 5-2, shows the level of competition Hong Kong can expect.
The National Games is held every four years and features elite athletes from various provinces, municipalities, and special administrative regions across China. Hong Kong will host eight competition events for the Games, including basketball, track cycling, fencing, golf, handball, rugby sevens, triathlon, and beach volleyball. The Kai Tak Sports Park, Hong Kong's largest multi-purpose sports complex, will serve as a central venue for the Games.
