Published: 10:17, May 31, 2025 | Updated: 11:38, May 31, 2025
Red Devils overpower HK 3-1 on return to city after 12 years
By Wang Zhan in Hong Kong
Players from the Hong Kong team and Manchester United compete during a friendly match at Hong Kong Stadium on May 30, 2025.(ANDY CHONG / CHINA DAILY)

In a friendly match held at Hong Kong Stadium on Friday night, Manchester United came from behind to defeat the Hong Kong team 3-1, concluding their Asian tour with a record of one win and one loss.

Hong Kong had taken the lead when Manchester United conceded a goal in the 19th minute of the game. Juninho, the Brazilian-born player, cut into the penalty area from the left, evaded the defense of 17-year-old defender Godwill Kukonki, and slotted the ball past the goalkeeper.

ALSO READ: Back and better than ever

The visitors intensified their attack later but failed to make a breakthrough in the first half. In the second half, the United coach, Ruben Amorim, introduced a fresh lineup, marking a strategic change to revitalize the team.

In the 50th minute of the game, 17-year-old Chido Obi, turned and shot to level the score at 1-1. In the 82nd minute, Obi netted a header from Mason Mount's assist, putting Manchester United ahead 2-1. During stoppage time in the second half, Amad Diallo delivered a cross that Ayden Heaven headed in, sealing the victory for Manchester United at 3-1.

READ MORE: Rugby Sevens makes Kai Tak debut

This match marked Manchester United's first visit to Hong Kong since 2013. Despite finishing 15th in the recently concluded Premier League season, the match attracted more than 33,000 fans who endured the rain to witness the game.

READ MORE: A festive finale

Two days earlier, in their first match in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Manchester United suffered a 0-1 defeat to the ASEAN All-Stars.

China Daily's Andy Chong captured the moments on Friday.