Statement on Tong Zhou Injury

ORLANDO, Florida -During the match between Auckland City FC and SL Benfica at the FIFA Club World Cup™️, our medical team made a decisive and independent assessment to substitute Tong Zhou under the concussion protocol.

The decision was based on player welfare as the overriding priority, consistent with FIFA’s concussion guidelines and best practice in head injury management.

While the situation unfolded in a high-profile environment, the medical staff acted in accordance with their duty of care, prioritising player safety above tactical or emotional considerations.

Auckland City FC stands firmly behind their professionalism, integrity, and commitment to safeguarding our athletes’ health.

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