Hong Kong’s football festival, featuring four top teams from England and Italy, thrilled fans, attracted visitors, boosted the economy and showcased the city’s credentials as a host for elite sporting events. The two matches capped a successful first five months for the spectacular new Kai Tak Stadium, which welcomed its 1 millionth spectator at the clash between North London rivals Arsenal and Tottenham.

The attendance for that match set a record for a football game in Hong Kong, as did the festival’s other contest, between Liverpool and AC Milan. Both enjoyed crowds just short of the 50,000 capacity. Kai Tak Sports Park passed a major test, with fans dispersing smoothly after each game. The turnout for the open training sessions particularly impressed the visiting clubs: a total of almost 60,000. The two friendly matches were competitive as the teams, full of stars, prepared for the season ahead. The fans created a vibrant atmosphere.

Hong Kong supporters are generally civilised and sporting. The festival was no exception. Many were experiencing a top-level football match for the first time. The efforts of all four teams were appreciated. The stadium was variously described by visiting players and managers as “fantastic”, “incredible” and a “game changer”. There was just a little criticism of the quality of the playing surface. That should receive attention.

Hong Kong has hosted a series of top sporting events since the opening of the sports park and more are on the way, notably the National Games just under 100 days away. The city must build on its success. As the festival’s promoter said, this is only the beginning.