A fervent Hong Kong Stadium witnessed one of the games of the season so far as a battling and spirited performance from Kitchee saw them overcome Hanoi FC (Vietnam) 3-2 to send them to the playoff round and closer to the Asian Champions League group stages. Stalwart and club legend Lam Ka-wai snatched the win in extra-time with his downward header. Organized chaos and utter pandemonium ensued as Kitchee players, fans and staff celebrated the victory when penalties seemed inevitable.
The game took a few dramatic turns and the lead changed several times with Sandro and Akande grabbing vital goals for the home side. The small but passionate crowd played a crucial role in encouraging Kitchee forward. Kitchee now have a date with destiny on February 7th when they travel away to South Korea to face Ulsan Hyundai with the winner going through to the Asian Champions League group stages.
February 7th could prove to be the most important game in Kitchee’s history.
Pictures from the night from JRP Borthwick and Christopher KL Lau.
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- Sandro equalizes against Hanoi FC
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- Sandro scores the crucial equalizer
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- Kitchee edge closer to the group stages
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- Lam Ka Wai wheels away in delight after scoring his winning goal
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- Joy Unconfined – Lam Ka Wai
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- Hanoi FC line up
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- The ‘Blue Wave” salute the team and vice versa
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- Kitchee Line Up
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- Alex Chu – Kitchee Manager
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- Team Huddles
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- Sandro celebrates with the crowd
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- Players celebrate with the fans
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- Thankful for the win
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- Sandro has a shot on goal
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- Alex Akande leaves the field after injuring himself scoring
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- Drama all night
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- Fernando just about keeps the ball in
