The roar of the “12th man” is set to shake Kai Tak Sports Park tonight, as Hong Kong takes on Bangladesh in the Asian Cup qualifiers.
After a memorable home match against India earlier this year — when supporters unfurled a giant dragon Tifo across the stands — excitement is building again, with fans and the Football Association promising a spectacle that goes beyond football.
Hong Kong Football Association (HKFA) president Eric Fok Kai-shan revealed on a radio program this morning that the match tonight will feature a bigger, newly designed Tifo, along with a surprise giveaway — a lucky fan will drive home a car sponsored by one of the event partners.
“We’ve worked closely with fan groups to bring even more energy into the stadium,” Fok said. “The goal is to attract attention, lift the atmosphere, and let everyone feel the passion for Hong Kong football.”
He added that several government officials, including Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law Shuk-pui, are expected to attend.
“The fans are truly the 12th player,” he said. “Their energy gives the team motivation, and the HKFA’s job is to create a bridge — supporting both the players and the fans, while keeping communication open with the government.”
Fans: We’ll shout all night
Among those leading the chants is Chester, a representative of a major fan organization, who said the group has spent weeks preparing for the big night.
“The Kai Tak Stadium is a much larger venue than Mong Kok Stadium, so we’ve upgraded everything — louder megaphones, brighter lights, new flags, and even a 25-inch drum,” he said.
“We want the whole stadium to feel our rhythm. Everyone will hear us — from the first whistle to the last minute.”
Chester revealed that the new Tifo — reportedly twice as large as the previous one — will require more fans to lift it together. But he kept its design a secret: “No spoilers. We want everyone to come and experience it live.”
To ensure a smooth performance, the fan group coordinated closely with the HKFA. For the first time, the association arranged for them to pre-purchase seats in the first two rows, allowing early access to set up equipment before gates open.
“It’s a great gesture,” Chester said. “It shows the FA really values fan culture and wants to make Hong Kong football something everyone can be proud of.”
Building momentum beyond the pitch
Fok said the HKFA is working to sustain the growing enthusiasm for local football. A pop-up shop will soon open near Sung Wong Toi Station, offering fans official merchandise and a chance to connect with the team’s community.
“Hong Kong football is entering a very good moment,” he said. “The quality of play has improved, and we’re seeing more people paying attention and getting involved.”
For Chester and his fellow fans, tonight isn’t just another match — it’s a celebration of local passion.
“We’ll warm up our voices, sing through the whole game, and cheer for every goal,” he said. The fan group even plans a special one-minute chant for injured captain Yapp Hung-fai, hoping to lift his spirits.
With a huge crowd expected, a new Tifo ready to rise, and the sound of drums set to echo through Kai Tak, one thing is certain — Hong Kong’s football fever is alive and louder than ever.
marco.lam@singtaonewscorp.com
