Hong Kong to face Argentina National Football team!

The Hong Kong Football Association is proud to announce an agreement with the Asociación del Fútbol Argentino confirming the star-studded Argentina National Team will play against the Hong Kong National Team on October 14th 2014 at the Hong Kong Stadium, to celebrate the Hong Kong Football Association’s Centenary.

The Hon. Timothy Fok, President of the HKFA welcomed the Argentines’ arrival saying, “We are very excited and honoured to play host to the two-time World Cup champions. They are arguably one of the favourites for this year’s World Cup Finals and the team is full of fantastic players with excellent football skills that will capture the hearts of every football fan in Hong Kong. The chance to play against one of the world’s best teams is a unique opportunity for our local players and will help us in developing Hong Kong football to an elite international level.”

The HKFA has confirmed that the Hong Kong National Team will be the team to play against the Argentina National Team. Brian Leung, Chairman of the HKFA said, “We are proud that we are able to invite such a top team to Hong Kong to celebrate our centennial anniversary. I am looking forward to strong support from local football fans to cheer on our players as they compete against the world’s best.”

The President of AFA, Mr Julio Grondona, described the event saying "For our institution, the Argentine Football Association, it is an honour to have been invited to play in this significant friendly match with the team of Hong Kong under the celebration of its centenary. At the same time, we take this opportunity to congratulate the Football Association of Hong Kong and we are sure that our National Team will offer our best efforts to create an unforgettable experience for all who can be present in the Hong Kong Stadium. In the name of the Executive Committee of the AFA, I send my warm regards and best wishes. "

HKFA CEO Mark Sutcliffe added “The AFA has promised to bring the big names to Hong Kong. Obviously most people will be hoping to see Messi play in Hong Kong but there are many other stars too and who know some new shining lights will come to the fore during the World Cup. Having the former World number 1 team and two-times World Champion is an unbelievable honour for Hong Kong and is a fitting way to celebrate our 100 years.”

The arrangements for ticketing will be announced immediately after the World Cup.

Argentina National Team has reached four World Cup finals (losing to Uruguay in 1930, winning in 1978 against Holland and again in 1986 beating Germany and losing in 1990 again to Germany), three Olympic finals (obtaining the silver medal in Atlanta 1996 and gold in Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008) and won six FIFA U-20 World Cups (1979, 1995, 1997, 2001, 2005 and 2007).