Ashley Westwood steps down as Hong Kong head coach after Asian Cup qualifier defeat

Hong Kong head coach Ashley Westwood formally left his post on 24 November 2025 following the city’s 2-1 defeat to Singapore in last week’s 2027 Asian Cup qualifier.

According to the Football Association of Hong Kong, China (HKFA), both parties “reached an agreement to end the collaboration” after what it called a difficult period for the national side.

Westwood said the time had come to step aside and reflected on his 15-month tenure, noting improvements in ranking, playing style, and winning the EAFF qualifiers.

He added that missing out on Asian Cup qualification was a deep personal disappointment and said no one felt the loss more than him.

He highlighted memorable moments, including seven consecutive victories, full stadiums at Kai Tak, and what he described as a united football community.

The HKFA has not yet named a successor but confirmed that an interim coach will be appointed shortly.

It also stated that an open recruitment process will begin to ensure stability and continued development of the team.

Hong Kong’s culture, sports and tourism secretary Rosanna Law earlier wrote that her views on match strategy “differed quite significantly” from the coach’s approach.

Her comments followed public criticism over the team’s inability to protect an early lead during the 19 November qualifier at Kai Tak Stadium.

According to the South China Morning Post, Westwood achieved 10 wins and six losses from 20 matches since his appointment in August 2024.

Critiques centred on his late substitutions and reliance on experienced naturalised players over younger local talent, which fuelled debate among supporters and analysts.

Former striker Chan Siu-ki questioned tactical decisions during live commentary, reflecting growing frustration across the football community.

Westwood, who previously coached in India and briefly led Afghanistan, also faced accusations of being indifferent to fan sentiment after remarks suggesting he paid little attention to public reactions.

His departure brings an end to a tenure marked by both strong results and rising discontent.

Meanwhile, Singapore achieved a landmark moment with its 2-1 win at Kai Tak on 18 November 2025.

The Lions overturned a first-half deficit with two goals in four minutes to secure a place at the 2027 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia.

The victory marks Singapore’s first qualification through on-field performance rather than hosting duties.

Officials and analysts in Singapore have highlighted the result as a major step forward after decades of near misses.

The team now focuses on strengthening its squad and sustaining momentum ahead of the 2027 tournament.

Singapore’s breakthrough is seen as a culmination of long-term development across its football ecosystem.

For Hong Kong, the defeat has prompted renewed scrutiny of the national team’s strategic direction.

The HKFA stated it will work to restore confidence and maintain progress as it transitions to new leadership.