International players and Hong Kong's best flocked to Hong Kong Football Club’s Main Pitch to play in the faster open style of sevens football. Special appearances from Raphael Varane, a perennial winner for Real Madrid, Man Utd, and France, and Jens Lehmann, Premier League winner, rounded off a weekend full of drama and skill as crowds filled all corners of the stadium. 

With temperatures soaring to a scorching 32 degrees, it took the visiting teams took a few games to adapt to the challenging conditions. In contrast, the home teams hit the ground running, making an immediate impact on the competition. Leading the charge, Hong Kong Football Club delivered an impressive performance against Leicester City, setting the standard for other HKFC and Hong Kong teams to follow their lead.

A special mention to our women’s HKFC team who defended brilliantly throughout the competition and came away as Plate winners. 

Main Cup Champions: AZ Alkmaar

In the grand finale of the weekend, Dutch visitors AZ Alkmaar showcased their total football qualities, turning in an impressive Soccer Sevens debut. Facing off against reigning champions Brighton & Hove Albion, both teams were evenly matched as they battled from kick off to extra time, where the defining moment came from their goalkeeper Kiyani Zeggen The golden goal resulted in AZ Alkmaar lifting the Main Cup in style and cementing their place as a force to be reckoned with.

Women’s Cup Champions: Kitchee

The Women’s Cup final kept spectators on the edge of their seats as Kitchee and Wrexham battled it out in a closely contested match. Both teams dazzled the crowd with near-misses and rock-solid defenses, but it was Cheung Wai Ki’s decisive, match-ending goal that secured Kitchee’s 1-0 victory. With this thrilling win, Kitchee was crowned the Women’s Cup Champions, sending local fans into a frenzy of celebration.

Masters Cup Champions: AMP Control Discovery Bay

AMP Control Discovery Bay Masters proved that experience truly counts, delivering a masterclass in skill and strategy. The veteran squad rolled back the years—and perhaps a few ankles—to claim a stunning 3-0 victory over Wallsend Boys Club.

Raphael Varane and Graeme Souness join us for Soccer Sevens

Adding star power to an already exciting weekend, HKFC and Puma welcomed football legend Raphael Varane to the festivities. The former Real Madrid and Manchester United star, with an illustrious career boasting 18 trophies—including four FIFA Club World Cups—delighted fans by playing friendly skill drills, signing memorabilia, and making an appearance on the Main Pitch. The legendary Graeme Souness also joined the celebrations, making this year’s Soccer 7s an unforgettable event for fans of all ages.