Exclusive | Hong Kong football boss Westwood to leave job days after disappointing Singapore defeat

Ashley Westwood is set to leave his role as head coach of the Hong Kong football team, a source has told the Post. Englishman Westwood’s position came into question after Hong Kong slumped to a disappointing 2-1 Asian Cup qualifying defeat to Singapore on Tuesday. Supporters have clamoured for Westwood’s dismissal, while he was also criticised by the city’s sports minister, Rosanna Law Shuk-pui. The Football Association of Hong Kong, China (HKFA) has stayed tight-lipped since the loss at Kai Tak Stadium, which sent Singapore to the 2027 finals at the expense of Hong Kong. It is expected they will announce Westwood’s departure this afternoon, although it is unclear whether the 49-year-old has resigned or been pushed out. Appointed in August last year, Westwood won 10 and lost six of his 20 matches in charge. Sources have told the Post that relations between Westwood and his HKFA bosses had become strained, and the coach had been keen to secure a job in club football even before this week’s events. Westwood came under fire for his handling of the pivotal Singapore clash, after bringing 41-year-old goalkeeper Wang Zhenpeng back in from the international cold, and delaying his substitutions until Hong Kong had fallen behind. Wang was culpable for Singapore’s equaliser, while the visitors exploited tiring limbs to swing the momentum of the match. While fans raged against the boss on social media, Law added her voice, saying, “many fans, including myself, have opinions that differ significantly from coach Westwood’s plans!”. More to follow …