Local fans revel in first North London derby abroad
The stadium quickly transformed into a sea of red and white, with a crowd of over 49,900 spectators supporting their teams. Photo: RTHK
The second match of the Hong Kong Football Festival kicked off on Thursday, as thousands of fans packed Kai Tak Stadium to watch Europa League champions Tottenham Hotspur take on Premier League rivals Arsenal.
It marked the first time in history that the North London derby was held overseas.
Fans from both teams arrived at the stadium early, with many queuing well before the 7.30pm kickoff.
The stadium quickly transformed into a sea of red and white, with a crowd of over 49,900 spectators supporting their teams.
A local Arsenal fan from Hong Kong, Jarvis, told RTHK that he is following in his dad's footsteps. His father has been a Gunners supporter since 1996 and witnessed the club win the Premier League title in 2003.
'I've been to UK so many times and watched many matches [there], but this is my first time to watched a match at the Kai Tak Stadium, and also to see the derby for the first time, so I am so excited about it,' he said.
'People screaming and just cheering for the team, [the atmosphere] is just similar to London.'
He also expressed the hope that some European football clubs, such as Real Madrid and Barcelona, will come to Hong Kong.
Toby, who splits his time between the UK and Hong Kong, said he's a lifetime Spurs fan.
'I've been a Tottenham fans for 18 years of my life, since I was born.'
He said he was expecting an exciting game tonight for the first overseas North London derby.
'I think the atmosphere can't be match with the London one, but I do think it's an unreal experience,' he told RTHK.
'I think it will be a pretty good game. Tottenham will probably get the win of the day. I am looking forward to it.'
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