Hong Kong Medic’s "Unprofessional" Actions During Singapore vs Hong Kong Asian Cup Qualifier Draw Mixed Reactions

Injury During the Game

Singapore forward Ilhan Fandi went down in the final minutes of the Asian Cup 2027 qualifier at Kai Tak Stadium on 19 November.

Singapore were leading 2–1 with about ten minutes left. Replays confirmed the injury was real, and Fandi had to be stretchered off.

A Medic Runs—and Raises a Fist

What grabbed attention was not just the injury. A Hong Kong medic, who seemingly also serves as a referee according to his Instagram account, ran with the stretcher alongside others who were not in a similar rush as him.

As observed in the many clips circulating, he raised his fist toward the crowd three times while moving the player.

No other staff members ran or gestured. One staff member appeared to pat him on the back, seemingly urging him to stop.

Some fans saw energy and dedication. Others immediately called it unprofessional.

Social media erupted. Screenshots, clips, and reactions spread quickly.

Medic Speaks Out

The medic later explained his side on Instagram. He said the gestures were meant to counter time-wasting tactics from players. He insisted that player safety was always the top priority.

“Even if it’s a small collision, experienced players sometimes exaggerate to waste time. I moved fast to prevent that, while keeping the player safe. For serious injuries like concussions or fractures, I never rush. Player safety comes first.”

He also said he felt like the “13th man” for Hong Kong, as though he was helping the team in front of 47,721 fans.

In his own words, the medic also admitted in the comments that he wanted to ‘buy time’ for the Hong Kong players.

Fans React—Mixed Opinions

Fans on Instagram and other platforms were split. Some praised the medic:

“A medical uncle who truly loves Hong Kong ❤️”

“Respect… hope it won’t affect your future work.”

“Mad respect. As a Singaporean, I also say: Please let him keep his job!”

Others criticised his gestures and solo run:

“A medic is supposed to be neutral and put caretaking first. Appalling behaviour.”

“For someone in his position, this is really unprofessional.”

“If he had slipped and fell, i doubt he’ll be able to take … responsibility …”

Fans in the comments noted that stretcher teams usually operate as a unit, and acting alone could disrupt coordination. Others pointed out that such gestures, directed at a crowd, are easily misinterpreted as celebration.

Safety vs Showmanship

Even those defending the medic acknowledged a tension between intent and optics. The medic claimed he was trying to motivate the fans and team.

But critics argued that, regardless of intent, carrying an injured player while raising a fist is a questionable look.

Match Result and Legacy

Singapore won 2–1 against Hong Kong that day, qualifying for the Asian Cup finals. The incident prompted broader conversations about sportsmanship, professional conduct, and fan perception.

“Worried about that guy, will he receive a warning letter? 😢”

“It would be really bad if your other colleagues were like you.”

Social media reactions reflected a spectrum of opinions—from admiration for patriotism and energy to calls for stricter professional standards for medical staff. Some expressed concern about potential disciplinary action, while others joked about the unusual nature of the stretcher run.

Takeaway

The episode shows how quickly emotions can run high in football. Even a gesture meant for strategy or motivation can be read differently by thousands of spectators.

In high-pressure matches, split-second actions can spark debates about professionalism, ethics, and public perception.

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