Hong Kong, China on Thursday fell 2-1 to Iraq in their opening match at the 2025 King's Cup in Thailand, as a late brace from Iraqi striker Mohanad Ali foiled their hopes for an upset.

The SAR drew first blood in the semi-final clash through a 61st-minute penalty from Matthew Orr, to the delight of fans at the Kanchanaburi Stadium just outside Bangkok.

"Always happy to score for Hong Kong," Orr said of his goal after the match.

"[Especially] against a strong team, a Middle Eastern team that is very strong in Asia. Goals against these teams is good for me, helps my confidence going forward," he added.

But Ali would tie the game up just six minutes later, and seal victory for Iraq with another goal in the 81st minute.

"We played so well in the first 65 minutes," Orr said.

"And then I think we let it slip, giving them a couple goals with some lack of focus. So of course, it's still disappointing."

On Sunday, the Hong Kong, China team will face Fiji in the battle for third place, who lost 3-0 to hosts Thailand.