KUALA LUMPUR - Football fever has taken over Hong Kong as Cristiano Ronaldo leads Al-Nassr into the first-ever Saudi Super Cup held in East Asia, turning the city into a five-day football fan zone.
The 40,000-seat Hong Kong Stadium hosted the tournament from 19 to 23 August, marking a milestone for both the city and the sport.
Organised by Sum KM Sport in collaboration with the Football Association of Hong Kong, China (HKFA) and the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF), the event features three high-stakes matches, including the grand final between Al-Nassr and Al-Ahli on Aug 23.
On opening night, Ronaldo’s side edged Al-Ittihad 2-1 in a nail-biting semifinal on opening night, while Al-Ahli stormed past Al-Qadsiah 5-1 to secure their spot in the final. During the Saudi Super Cup Final, Al-Ahli clinched the championship over Al-Nassr on 5-3 penalties after a thrilling 2-2 draw.
This marks the first time the Saudi Super Cup, launched in 2013, has ventured beyond the Middle East-spotlighting Hong Kong as a rising hub for international sport, according to the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) in a statement.
The excitement continues with the newly opened CR7 LIFE Museum at K11 MUSEA, an immersive tribute to Ronaldo’s extraordinary life and career, from his humble beginnings in his hometown of Madeira to his record-breaking performances at Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, Al Nassr, and the Portuguese national team.
Soft launched on July 7, the 12,000-square-foot museum is a treasure trove for football enthusiasts, featuring his 2008 Ballon d’Or, Golden Boots, UEFA Champions League trophies, and jerseys from unforgettable matches.
Interactive highlights include the UR7 YouTube Studio, a replica of Ronaldo’s own filming space, and the GOAT Photobooth, where fans can use artificial intelligence to create a souvenir image alongside the legend, while also browsing exclusive merchandise such as signed jerseys and special-edition keepsakes.
With the Saudi Super Cup and the CR7 LIFE Museum both landing in Hong Kong this summer, football fans have the perfect reason to visit the city and take a chance to witness sporting history and learn more about one of the best players of all time. - BERNAMA