On Thursday, Liechtenstein will host Hong Kong in Vaduz for a friendly match as they prepare for their upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures. Both teams come into the match with differing circumstances; Liechtenstein aims to end a lengthy winless streak, while Hong Kong looks to build on recent performances after being eliminated from AFC World Cup qualifying.
Match Preview
Liechtenstein Liechtenstein is desperate to break a 41-match winless streak that stretches back four years. Following a heartbreaking defeat to San Marino, where the latter ended their own infamous winless run, the Blue-Reds are in dire need of a victory. Despite the lack of wins, their recent form has shown signs of improvement, with three draws in their last five matches, including a notable goalless draw against Romania.
While they return to Vaduz, where they haven’t won in nearly four years, the familiarity of home could offer them a chance to gain some much-needed confidence. They will look to capitalize on facing a relatively weaker opponent in Hong Kong.
Hong Kong In contrast, Hong Kong has enjoyed a mixed bag of results in recent months, with four wins and three draws in the last 13 months, but also an eight-match losing streak during that same period. However, they are entering this match on the back of three unbeaten fixtures, which include draws against Turkmenistan and Fiji, along with a decisive 3-0 win against the Solomon Islands. This recent uptick in form under manager Ashley Westwood will boost their confidence as they travel to Europe.
Team News
Liechtenstein Manager Konrad Funfstuck is expected to field his strongest XI despite the friendly nature of the match. They might feature the same lineup that drew with Gibraltar, although experienced players like Fabio Wolfinger and Martin Marxer could make a return to strengthen the squad.
Possible Starting XI for Liechtenstein:
- Goalkeeper: B. Buchel
- Defenders: Weiser, Beck, Goppel
- Midfielders: Meier, Hasler, M. Buchel, Sele, Kindle
- Forwards: Saglam, Luque-Notoro
Hong Kong Ashley Westwood will have to make at least two changes due to the absence of Vas Nunez and Wu Chun Ming from the squad. Yu Wai-Lim and Tan Chun-Lok are likely to step into the defense and midfield respectively, while maintaining the overall structure of the team that secured their recent results.
Possible Starting XI for Hong Kong:
- Goalkeeper: Yapp
- Defenders: Yue, Yu W, Gerbig, Chan
- Midfielders: Yu, Tan, Chan
- Forwards: Poon, Udebuluzor, Juninho
Prediction
Although this is a friendly, Liechtenstein will be motivated to finally end their long winless streak. Despite Hong Kong’s recent form, Liechtenstein may have the edge playing at home.
Prediction: Liechtenstein 1-0 Hong Kong
This matchup presents an opportunity for both teams: Liechtenstein aims to rediscover their winning ways, while Hong Kong seeks to solidify their recent resurgence. The stakes may not be high in terms of tournament implications, but for both sides, a win would carry significant psychological benefits.
