The football sporting event at the 1917 Far Eastern Championship Games was contested by three nations; Philippines, China and football debutant and hosts Japan. China was represented by South China A.A. and Japan was represented by a selection from the Tokyo Higher Normal School.
Note: While the Philippines were ranked second, this is debatable, since they withdrew after causing a brawl that led to the abandonment of their match against China.
At least one milestone was reached, aside from the record scoreline made in this match: Haruyoshi Fujii became Japan's first goalscorer in an international competitive football match by scoring Japan's two goals.
The match was abandoned in the 55th minute with China leading 3âÂÂ0. After Cheung had scored China's third goal from a penalty, the Filipino goalkeeper punched Cheung in the face, sparking a brawl which was broken up by match officials and police: consequently, the Philippines had several players (including the goalkeeper) sent off, and withdrew from the tournament.