Hong Kong Premier League
The Hong Kong Premier League, the top tier of professional football in the Special Administrative Region of China, was established in 2014. It features elite clubs delivering fast-paced, skillful soccer infused with Asian flair, drawing growing attention from mainland China and international scouts.
History and foundation
Launched in 2014 to replace the First Division and align with AFC standards, the league saw Eastern Long Lion (formerly South China) dominate early titles in 2015 and 2016. A highlight was Kitchee SC's 2018 championship win by 18 points. Despite COVID disruptions shortening seasons, it rebounded, with Lee Man claiming the 2023 crown. Fun fact: The league has hosted naturalized players boosting Hong Kong's national team.
Tournament format
Typically 8–10 teams compete in a double round-robin format (home and away), yielding 14–18 matches per side. Top finishers enter playoffs for the title, while bottom teams face relegation to Second Division. Seasons run September to May, with breaks for holidays and continental cups.
Interesting facts
Averaging 3.2 goals per game, it's among Asia's most entertaining leagues. Top scorer Branislav Jojic (Kitchee) netted 33 in 2019/20. Standouts include Jojic, Brazilian Everton Camargo and Fernando (Lee Man), and locals like Anselm Xu of Eastern, who have elevated the competition's profile.