Hong Kong football head coach reportedly leaving after S’pore defeat

Hong Kong football head coach Ashley Westwood is reportedly set to leave his post following the team’s 2–1 defeat to Singapore at Kai Tak Stadium on Nov. 18.

The historic result sent Singapore through to the Asian Cup at Hong Kong’s expense.

According to South China Morning Post, the 49-year-old's likely departure is tied to the loss, although it is unclear whether he resigned or was pushed out.

Westwood, who was appointed in August 2024, has overseen 20 matches, with a total of 10 wins and six losses.

Calls for Westwood to be sacked

Following Hong Kong's loss, numerous fans have called for Westwood's dismissal.

He was also criticised by Hong Kong's Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Rosanna Law, who wrote on social media that many fans, herself included, "[had] opinions that differ significantly from coach Westwood's plans!".

Supporters criticised his approach towards the crucial match, namely his decision to bring back 41-year-old goalkeeper Wang Zhenpeng, who had not played for the national team in a while, and substituting players only after the team had fallen behind in the match.

SCMP added that according to sources, tensions had been rising between Westwood and bosses from the Football Association of Hong Kong, China (HKFA) even before the match.

Westwood believe he would stay on in his role

Westwood initially expressed confidence that he would remain as head coach despite the disappointing result.

"Yes, I think I will be back," he said according to Hong Kong news outlet The Standard,

Describing the defeat as "devastating", the Englishman nevertheless said that under his tenure, the Hong Kong team had "improved a lot".

"Our possession increased 58 per cent average, we created more chances, more goals and kept clean sheets," he said.

Westwood added that he would not apologise for the team's failure to qualify, affirming that the team had given its all.

 "No, if you give everything there is nothing to apologise for. If we failed for some reason then of course I am disappointed.

We are sorry we could not give our fans the fairytale ending we all wanted."

HKFA has yet to make any official comment since the team's loss.

Top photos via HKFA/Facebook