Month: May 2025
The Lion City Sailors displayed grit and character in abundance as they battled from behind to beat Brunei DPMM 3-2 in the first leg of the Singapore Cup semi-finals at the Jalan Besar Stadium on Wednesday (21 May).
Despite twice falling behind to strikes from Azwan Ali Rahman and Gabriel Gama, the Sailors held their nerve. Maxime Lestienne pulled the team level, before centre-backs Toni Datković and Bailey Wright stepped up with crucial goals to steer the Sailors a step closer to a second straight Singapore Cup final.
Coming off a physically and emotionally draining Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) Two Final at Bishan Stadium just three days earlier, Sailors Head Coach Aleksandar Ranković made three changes, with Lionel Tan, Shawal Anuar, and Zharfan Rohaizad all drafted into the starting XI.
Speaking after the hard-fought win, Ranko lauded his players for the mental strength they showed in bouncing back from Sunday’s heartbreak.
“Everyone who plays football understands just how much that last match took out of the players — physically and emotionally,” said Ranko. “We knew it was going to be a tough game, and we were caught off guard for both of their goals. But I’m really proud of the way the boys responded.
“DPMM are a side in good form, and while we created several good chances in the first half, it was crucial for us to come away with the win. That said, nothing’s settled yet. We have to recover well and be fully focused for the second leg.”
Coming into the match on the back of five straight league victories, DPMM started brightly and took an early lead. In the 8th minute, Nazirrudin unleashed a fierce drive that Zharfan could only parry, with captain Azwan Ali reacting quickest to slot home the rebound from close range.
That early setback jolted the Sailors into action. Just seven minutes later, Song Uiyoung burst down the right flank and picked out Shawal in the box, but the forward blazed his effort over the bar.
The pressure continued in the 22nd minute as Maxime produced a trademark dash down the left to square the ball for Bart Ramselaar, whose instinctive inside-foot flick drifted just wide.
Shawal came agonisingly close to scoring twice around the half-hour mark. First, he glanced a header narrowly wide of the far post, before rattling the crossbar with a thunderous strike moments later.
But the Sailors’ breakthrough finally arrived on the stroke of half-time. A low driven cross from Lionel was met by Maxime at the near post, with the Belgian poking home to net his first goal of this season’s Singapore Cup.
The Sailors nearly ended the half on a high when Maxime curled in yet another teasing delivery for Shawal, but the latter’s close-range effort was well smothered by DPMM custodian Haimie Nyaring.
Just as the Sailors looked to have taken control of proceedings, DPMM struck against the run of play. From a short corner routine in the 57th minute, Gama weaved past his marker and rifled a powerful effort past Zharfan to make it 2-1.
But the Sailors refused to be rattled. Showing urgency and intent, they drew level once again in the 66th minute. Maxime — the architect once more — delivered a pinpoint cross into the box, where Toni rose highest to nod home beyond a stranded Haimie.
The turnaround was complete just three minutes later. DPMM failed to deal with a Sailors corner, and skipper Bailey Wright was quickest to react, smashing home from close range to hand the hosts the lead for the first time on the night.
As the Sailors continued to press for a cushion, Haimie was called into action again in the 86th minute — this time diving smartly to his right to parry a curling effort from Maxime.
Despite DPMM’s late push for an equaliser, the Sailors held their shape and composure at the back to see out a gritty 3-2 victory — taking a slender but significant lead into the second leg of the semi-final.
“It was a strong performance from the first to the last minute,” said man-of-the-match Maxime after the final whistle. “It wasn’t easy to recover from Sunday, and we conceded two soft goals. But the important thing is we scored three and won. There’s still one more leg to go, so we must give everything again, just like we did today.”
With the Sailors set to wrap up their Singapore Premier League (SPL) campaign against BG Tampines Rovers this Saturday (24 May) at the same venue, Ranko signalled his intent to rotate the squad.
“The nice thing is that there’s no pressure on that game for us, so we’re going to use it to give minutes to players who haven’t featured as much,” said Ranko. “It also gives the rest of the team a chance to rest and focus on preparing for the second leg next week.”
The Sailors will then return to Bishan Stadium next Tuesday (27 May) for the all-important second leg of their semi-final clash against Brunei DPMM, with a spot in the 2025 Singapore Cup final on the line.
As the clock ticked into the final ten minutes of the Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) Two Final, it was all hands on deck for the Lion City Sailors as they chased a one-goal deficit against Sharjah FC.
Having already introduced top scorer Shawal Anuar in a bid to turn the tide, Sailors head coach Aleksandar Ranković played another card in the 79th minute — sending on young striker Abdul Rasaq Akeem.
Facing a Sharjah defence anchored by South Korean international Cho Yu-min was no easy task, but the 21-year-old was unfazed by the occasion and immediately injected urgency into the Sailors’ game with his tireless pressing and relentless energy.
“We were chasing the game, so Coach Ranko wanted to push more men forward to create scoring chances,” explained Rasaq. “Sharjah are a strong team, but for me, it was just another game. I had to stay confident no matter who I was up against.
“The intensity was high, and I knew I had to stay sharp. The only thing on my mind was helping the team find that equaliser, so I just gave it everything I had.”
Rasaq’s introduction proved pivotal in the Sailors’ late breakthrough, as he calmly brought down a high ball before spreading it wide to full-back Diogo Costa, who squared it across for Maxime Lestienne to fire home the equaliser.
“When Maxime scored, belief came flooding back,” said Rasaq. “Everyone felt energised, and we genuinely thought we could ride that momentum and win the game in regulation time.”
But fate had other ideas.
Just as the Sailors looked poised to take control, Marcus Meloni struck a 97th-minute winner for Sharjah — a cruel blow that silenced the majority of the 9,737-strong Bishan Stadium crowd and shattered the Sailors’ hopes of a historic first continental title.
The dramatic late twist left Sailors players and fans stunned. But amid the heartbreak, Rasaq took heart in the team’s fighting spirit.
“We earned our place in the final, so it was only right that we gave everything until the final whistle,” said Rasaq. “Everyone — the fans, the staff, our families — has supported us throughout the season, so we knew we had to fight for everyone involved with the club. The result didn’t go our way, but I’m proud that every single one of us gave our all.”
Disappointment was clearly etched across the faces of the Sailors as they trudged back to the dressing room. But as the dust began to settle, there was also a growing sense that while the result stung, it had only strengthened the team’s belief, and fuelled their hunger to go even further.
“For all the effort we’ve put in this season, we really wanted to cap it off with the ACL Two trophy,” Rasaq shared. “I could see how disappointed everyone was at full time, but deep down, we’re incredibly proud of the club and how far we’ve come.
“That was also what Coach Ranko told us after the game, that we shouldn’t feel too down because we’ve already made history and brought pride to the nation. This is just the beginning. The defeat will only motivate us to keep pushing forward, and hopefully create even more special moments for Singapore.”
For Rasaq, featuring in a major continental final like the ACL Two still felt almost surreal.
“This was definitely one of the biggest moments of my career,” he reflected. “Finals like these were the kind of games I used to only watch on TV. To actually be on the pitch and part of it all is a completely different feeling. I never imagined playing in a match of this magnitude, so I’m just grateful for the opportunity. I’ll take everything I’ve learned and use it to grow from here.”
There will be little time for the Sailors to dwell on the heartbreak, however, with another trophy still up for grabs. Just 72 hours after the final, they will return to action in the first leg of a crucial Singapore Cup semi-final against an in-form Brunei DPMM side at the Jalan Besar Stadium on Wednesday (21 May).
The Bruneian outfit are riding a wave of momentum, and are unbeaten in nine of their last ten outings across all competitions, with five consecutive wins to their name. Their attack is led by Latvian international Dāvis Ikaunieks, who has been in red-hot form with nine goals in his last five games.
With one final push left this season, Rasaq is determined to channel the pain of defeat into fuel for the fight ahead.
“Losing a final is never easy, but we have to stay positive — there’s still one more piece of silverware to fight for,” he said. “Brunei are a very strong team and they’ve been in good form, so we need to be sharp and fully aware of the threats they pose. It’s all about staying focused and finishing the season in the best way possible.
“It’s important that we rest, recover, and prepare for the semi-finals in the best way possible. It was heartwarming to feel the love and support from our fans on Sunday. We still have the Singapore Cup to fight for, and the team is fully focused on finishing the season with more silverware.”
The Lion City Sailors Women’s Team fell to their first defeat of the 2025 Women’s Premier League (WPL) season, as they narrowly lost 1-0 to Albirex Niigata (S) at the Choa Chu Kang Stadium on Sunday (18 May).
It marked just the second defeat in the team’s history since their formation in 2022, with their only other loss coming against Geylang International in the 2024 season.
Despite the setback, the Sailors remain atop the WPL standings with 13 points from six matches, though Albirex have closed the gap to just one point with a game in hand.
“We played according to our game plan today and I’m proud of each and every member of this team,” said Sailors Head Coach Daniel Ong. “We came close to scoring in the first half but didn’t take our chances. We’ll move on from this and take each game as it comes.”
Daniel handed a start to Sailors Girls’ Academy graduate Madison Telmer, who made her return to the starting XI and was quickly involved in the thick of the action.
While Albirex started the stronger of the two sides, the Sailors soon created the game’s first big opportunity in the 12th minute. Albirex goalkeeper Erlinawaty Jaffar failed to claim a high ball, allowing Sarah Zu’risqha a free header — only for her effort to be dramatically cleared off the line by Sun Jie.
The Sailors came even closer just a minute later. Madison whipped in an inch-perfect cross from the right that found Priscille Le Helloco, but her fierce strike cannoned off the woodwork.
Those missed opportunities would prove costly for the Sailors, as in the 22nd minute, Albirex took the lead against the run of play through Ruriko Takashima, who broke free from midfield and finished coolly over the reach of Beatrice Tan.
It was Takashima’s fourth goal in two games, having netted a hat-trick in last weekend’s 7-2 win over Still Aerion.
The Sailors tried to respond immediately, and in the 32nd minute, Sarah’s low free-kick appeared to slip through the grasp of Erlinawaty, but the Albirex custodian reacted quickly to push the ball out for a corner.
The first-half ended with Albirex holding on to a slender 1-0 lead, but the Sailors came out with renewed purpose in the second half.
Umairah Hamdan tried her luck from distance in the 48th minute, but her effort flew off target, with the increasingly heavy downpour posing challenges for both teams.
“The rain actually affected our game today. The long balls weren’t going in the right direction, while the short passes couldn’t reach our players’ feet,” said Sailors captain Umairah.
“Both teams had to deal with the same conditions, but when the pitch is waterlogged and the surface isn’t dry or stable, it definitely affects your performance.”
Just past the hour mark, the Sailors continued to push for an equaliser, with Madison and Dhaniyah Qasimah both having attempts on goal, though neither seriously tested the Albirex goalkeeper.
At the other end, Khairunnisa Anwar came up with a crucial intervention in the 66th minute, producing a heroic last-ditch sliding tackle to deny Albirex a second goal and keep her side in the contest.
Madison later carved out a shot under pressure from three defenders, but it proved to be the Sailors’ final meaningful attempt on goal as Albirex held firm, even with several attacking substitutions introduced in the closing stages.
“Despite the loss, I think there were more positives than negatives for us in this game,” reflected Umairah. “The girls did a good job. Everyone gave their all and tried to play really good football.”
The Sailors will have a chance to bounce back next Saturday (24 May), when they take on bottom-placed Balestier Khalsa.
While the Tigresses have shipped 26 goals in just five matches, they will head into the clash with renewed belief after securing their first WPL victory of the season — a 2-1 win over Tanjong Pagar United.
Looking ahead, Umairah stressed the importance of being more clinical in front of goal.
“One thing we must do better is to be more decisive in the final third,” she said. “Chances will come, but we need to optimise them and seize every opportunity.”
“So that’s something we’ll work on — not just in the next game against Balestier, but moving forward as well if we want to achieve the results we’re aiming for.”
There was to be no Cinderella ending to the Lion City Sailors’ fairytale run in the Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) Two, as they fell to a heartbreaking 2-1 defeat to Emirati side Sharjah FC in Sunday’s (18 May) final at the Bishan Stadium.
Trailing 1-0 to a Firas Ben Larbi strike as the match edged into stoppage time, the Sailors showed remarkable resilience in front of esteemed Guest of Honour, Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam, President of the Republic of Singapore, to pull level through Maxime Lestienne.
But just as the partisan 9,737-strong crowd roared them on in hope, Marcus Meloni delivered the decisive blow in the 97th minute to snatch the ACL Two trophy for the visitors.
It was a cruel end to what had been a historic campaign – one that saw the Sailors defy expectations and push the boundaries of Singapore football by reaching a first-ever continental final.
Despite the crushing nature of the defeat, Sailors head coach Aleksandar Ranković was full of praise for his players as he reflected on the magnitude of their achievement.
“We are very disappointed and upset that we lost in that fashion, but at the same time, incredibly proud of how we presented ourselves,” said Ranko. “It was one of those 50-50 games where a single moment decided the outcome, and unfortunately, it didn’t go our way.
“But I have nothing but pride in my boys – for the way they’ve played and the journey we’ve had. We’ve brought something special to Singapore football, and every single one of them did a tremendous job.”
As rain poured down on the newly refurbished 10,000-seater Bishan Stadium, the final kicked off as a cagey affair, with both sides cautiously probing for the right moment to strike. Aside from a disallowed goal by Caio Lucas in the 10th minute for offside, the Sailors’ resolute defensive structure largely succeeded in containing their highly regarded opponents.
The home side’s first real sight at goal came in the 19th minute when a loose ball from a corner fell to Bart Ramselaar on the edge of the area, but his effort was well-blocked by defender Shahin Abdulrahman.
Flying full-back Diogo Costa – who had already made several marauding runs down the left – then nearly opened the scoring in the 34th minute, with a volley from the edge of the box that ricocheted off Sharjah goalkeeper Adel Al-Hosani’s near post.
Sharjah had a chance of their own just before the break, as Luanzinho rose to meet a David Petrovic cross in stoppage time, but the winger’s header flew wide of Izwan Mahbud’s goal.
The Sailors came out strong after the interval, with early second-half efforts from Song Uiyoung and Bart both sailing over the bar. Sharjah gradually began to assert themselves and created their best opening of the match in the 67th minute, but forward Ousmane Camara could only head wide from close range.
That chance proved to be a sign of ominous things to come for the Sailors. Just six minutes later, Caio threaded a brilliant lofted pass to pick out the run of Khaled Ibrahim, who had ghosted in at the far post. The full-back slid the ball across goal for Ben Larbi to tap home the opener for the visitors.
Now chasing the game, the Sailors searched desperately for a breakthrough, and nearly found it in the 83rd minute. A header from Lennart Thy in the Sharjah box deflected off the heel of substitute Shawal Anuar, but the Singaporean international could only send it wide of the goal.
However, as the match ticked into the second of 11 minutes of stoppage time, star man Maxime produced the moment the home fans had been waiting for. Latching onto a low cross from Diogo, the Belgian struck a precise first-time shot with his left foot that flew beyond Al-Hosani and into the net. It was a stunning equaliser that sent the crowd at the Bishan Stadium into raptures, and briefly reignited the Sailors’ hopes.
But the Sailors’ euphoria was short-lived. With the hosts pushing forward in search of a winner, Sharjah struck a cruel counter-punch in the 97th minute. A delightful reverse ball from Caio released Meloni down the left, and the Brazilian-born Emirati skipped past a challenge before rifling a low shot into the bottom corner to swing the final back in his side’s favour.
As the Sailors stared down the barrel, they threw everything they had at Sharjah in a desperate push for another equaliser. But some resolute last-ditch defending from the visitors denied Shawal during a series of frantic goalmouth scrambles. That would be as close as the home side came, as the final whistle sounded after 103 gruelling minutes of football — and the Sailors sank to the turf, heartbroken but proud.
Speaking after the match, Ranko emphasised that the journey — not just the result — will leave a lasting impact.
“Apart from the defeat, the number one lesson we can take away is that we should never stop dreaming and believing,” said the Serbian. “We were the underdogs in almost every game this campaign, and rightfully so because we come from Singapore. If we can achieve even half of what we’ve done this season — especially in the Champions League Two — I’ll be very satisfied.
“This year showed me that if we believe — and of course, if you have such a group of players — you can go so far.”
There will, however, be little time for the Sailors to dwell on this heartbreak, as they return to action on Wednesday (21 May) in the first leg of a crucial Singapore Cup semi-final tie against Brunei DPMM.
As the steadying presence in the dressing room, club captain Hariss Harun was quick to rally the team and turn their attention to the next objective.
“We have one more competition to fight for, so we need to pick ourselves up,” said Hariss. “We can give each other a pat on the back for what we’ve achieved in this ACL Two campaign, but now, it’s about putting this setback behind us and finishing the season strong with another trophy.”
A historic first continental title beckons as the Lion City Sailors lock horns with United Arab Emirates (UAE) heavyweights Sharjah FC in the Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) Two Final 2025 at the Bishan Stadium this Sunday, 18 May.
A sleeping giant
Touted as one of the biggest matches in the Sailors’ short but ambitious five-year history, this final is a golden opportunity for the newly-crowned Singapore Premier League (SPL) champions to carve their name into Asian football folklore.
Victory would not only mark the club’s first major continental title but also a landmark moment for Singapore football.
Standing in their path, however, is a formidable Sharjah side that is equally eager to make history. The final will be the Sailors’ first encounter this season with a West Asian opponent – a new and daunting challenge.
Sharjah’s pedigree is well-established. Once a dominant force in Emirati football, they clinched five UAE Pro League titles and finished runners-up six times between 1973 and 1998. However, success has been harder to come by in recent years, with just one league triumph in the 2018/19 season.
Nevertheless, the club enjoyed a trophy-laden 2022/23 campaign, as they won the UAE Super Cup, League Cup, and President’s Cup to underline their status as a regional powerhouse on the rise.
Now sitting second in the UAE Pro League, Sharjah trail champions Shabab Al-Ahli by 12 points — a gap made all the more painful after losing to the same side in the UAE President’s Cup final on 9 May.
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Sharjah had looked title contenders earlier in the season, racking up 13 wins in their first 14 league games. But a sharp dip in form — with just two victories in their next 10 outings — saw them fall out of the title race. Indeed, they arrive in Singapore on the back of three consecutive league defeats, including back-to-back 3-0 losses to Al Wahda and Al Ain.
However, their continental campaign tells a different story.
In the ACL Two, Sharjah have been a different beast. They topped a tough group featuring Jordanian giants Al-Wehdat and Iran’s Sepahan with four wins from six matches. In the knockout rounds, they edged out Jordan’s Al Hussein and domestic rivals Shabab Al-Ahli — both via penalties — before booking their place in the final with a dramatic 2-1 aggregate win over Saudi Arabia’s Al-Taawoun, courtesy of two stoppage-time goals in the semi-final second leg.
For Sailors head coach Aleksandar Ranković, the final against Sharjah represents the ultimate test of his side’s continental credentials — but it is a challenge they are relishing.
“Sharjah are a team with not just quality on the pitch, but also a strong winning mentality,” said Ranko. “They’ve shown time and again they can grind out results, with late goals and penalty shootouts.
“They’re a physical side, no doubt, but we’ve faced many teams like that in this competition, so we’re ready. We know it’ll be a tough battle, but we are prepared for anyone.”
In the opposition dugout stands Romanian tactician Cosmin Olăroiu, who is widely regarded as one of the Gulf region’s most respected coaching figures. With a glittering résumé, Olăroiu has led some of the UAE’s biggest clubs to glory, including four league titles with Al Ain and Al Ahli.
His trophy haul also boasts five UAE Super Cups, two League Cups, and two President’s Cups, alongside top-flight league triumphs in Romania, China, and Saudi Arabia.
Under his guidance, Sharjah have lost just twice in 12 ACL Two outings — a testament to Olăroiu’s knack for navigating high-stakes continental competitions.
With all that experience in the opposing camp, Sailors captain Hariss Harun knows his side cannot afford any complacency.
“When it comes to finals, form goes out of the window,” said Hariss. “We can talk about how well they’ve played, or how well we’ve played, but it doesn’t matter. In games like this, there are no favourites. It all comes down to who wants it more on the day.”
Blend of quality and experience
With this match set to be Olăroiu’s final bow as Sharjah head coach before he takes over the UAE national team, the 55-year-old will be determined to end his tenure on a high. Aiding his quest is a star-studded squad valued at €43.63 million (Transfermarkt) — more than seven times the Sailors’ squad value.
Among his marquee names is former Moroccan international Adel Taarabt, who is fondly remembered as one of the most technically gifted players to grace English football. The 35-year-old playmaker has turned out for the likes of Tottenham Hotspur, AC Milan, and Benfica, and even featured in a UEFA Champions League quarter-final against Liverpool in 2022.
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Despite being in the twilight of his career, Taarabt remains as influential as ever, and his flair and vision continue to make him a key threat. He has hit double figures in goal contributions every season since his move to the UAE, and has already chalked up nine goals and five assists in all competitions this term.
Leading Sharjah’s attacking line is talismanic forward Caio Lucas. The former Benfica man is the club’s all-time leading goalscorer, with 75 goals in 176 appearances. This season, the 31-year-old has netted 18 goals domestically and added five goals and three assists in 11 ACL Two appearances. Having featured in every edition of the ACL since 2014, Caio’s vast experience will be pivotal in the final.
Olăroiu’s attacking arsenal also boasts talents like left winger Luan Pereira (Luanzinho), who notched five goals and two assists in the ACL Two group stage, and versatile forward Ousmane Camara. Tunisian international Firas Ben Larbi and Brazil youth international Guilherme Biro add further firepower to Sharjah’s formidable frontline.
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Defensively, Sharjah are anchored by South Korean international Cho Yu-min, who memorably registered an assist in a 7-0 victory over Singapore in 2024. Complementing him is Serbian left-back David Petrovic, a tireless 22-year-old who has clocked the most minutes of any outfield player for Sharjah this season.
Their squad depth is further bolstered by six active UAE national team players, including seasoned right-back Khaled Ebraheim and defensive midfielder Majid Rashid — underlining the quality and experience throughout the side.
Embracing the occasion
Even with the obvious quality of their opponents, the Sailors have repeatedly shown they are capable of defying the odds throughout their ACL Two campaign.
Memorable triumphs over Japanese powerhouses Sanfrecce Hiroshima in the quarter-finals and Australian giants Sydney FC in the semi-finals stand as proof. The Sailors have won five of their last seven matches in the competition, a remarkable run that has carried them to the cusp of their greatest achievement since the club’s formation five years ago.
For Ranko, however, this final is not a moment of pressure, but one of opportunity. The Serbian cut a relaxed figure on the eve of the match, as he urged his charges to embrace the occasion and turn belief into performance.
“There is no pressure on the team at all,” said Ranko. “We’ve already made history several times this season, so this is just another chance to prove ourselves, and there’s no better stage than a final.
“Everybody is prepared and focused on getting the win. We’re going to give our best in front of our home crowd tomorrow.”
With a sold-out Bishan Stadium set to transform into a cauldron of noise and colour, Hariss has called on the Sailors faithful to once again make their presence felt.
“Our fans have been a huge part of this campaign,” said the Singapore international. “They’ve followed us home and away, and their support means everything to us. With Bishan’s expanded capacity and the close proximity between players and fans, I’m sure their energy will give us that extra boost tomorrow.”
On a cold night ten years ago at the Republican Central Stadium in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, current Lion City Sailors captain Hariss Harun savoured one of the sweetest moments of his 17-year career.
Then turning out for Malaysian powerhouses Johor Darul Ta’zim, Hariss played the full 90 minutes of the 2015 Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Cup final – the predecessor of today’s AFC Champions League (ACL) Two – as his side edged FC Istiklol 1-0 on their home turf to become the first Southeast Asian team to lift the second-tier Asian club title.
“Given the circumstances, lifting that trophy is definitely up there among the highs of my career,” recounted Hariss, who became the first Singaporean to win the competition. “We had to contend with the cold and a hostile home crowd, but I focused on keeping my head in the game. We won by the slimmest of margins, and to this day, the joy and satisfaction of making history for the club remains etched in my memory.”
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Exactly a decade on from that triumph, Hariss now stands on the brink of another historic milestone. Having captained the Sailors to the final of the 2024/25 edition of the ACL Two, the 34-year-old is set to contest the prestigious trophy once again – this time on home soil, against UAE’s Sharjah FC on 18 May, in what is widely regarded as the biggest match in the Sailors’ five-year history.
For Hariss, this campaign has been a testament to the grit and belief that runs deep within the Sailors squad — qualities that have powered the team’s remarkable run.
“We’re amazed at the journey we’ve been on…not many expected us to make it this far,” Hariss candidly admitted. “But we took things one game at a time and never got ahead of ourselves.
“That said, we’re not dwelling on what we’ve achieved. There’s still a job to be done. Just like all those years ago, there’s a strong determination in me to make history again. It would be a massive boost for Singapore football — and we all want to be part of that moment.”
It has been a roller-coaster ACL Two campaign for the Sailors, marked by thrilling highs and testing lows. It all began in August 2024, when they were drawn into a daunting Group F alongside 2023 Chinese Super League second runners-up Zhejiang Professional, Thai League 1’s third-placed Port FC, and reigning Indonesia Liga 1 champions Persib Bandung.
So, right from the outset, the Sailors knew they were in for a fierce battle to reach the knockout stages for the first time in their history.
Far from being intimidated, however, the Sailors responded with grit and resilience — qualities that would come to define their campaign. And few embodied that steely resolve more than Croatian defender Toni Datković. Since joining from Spanish side Albacete Balompié in February 2024, the 30-year-old has become a mainstay in Head Coach Aleksandar Ranković’s setup, playing every single minute of the Sailors’ ACL Two journey thus far.
“The second I stepped onto the pitch in this campaign, I felt motivated,” shared Toni. “As underdogs, nothing came easy, but we never stopped fighting. Every sweet and bitter moment over the past few months has led us here — now we’re on the big stage.”
The Sailors kicked off their campaign in style in front of a raucous Jalan Besar crowd, as they secured a 2-0 win over Zhejiang thanks to stunning goals from Hariss and Maxime Lestienne.
“The first game is always the most important as it sets the tone for the whole campaign,” said Hariss. “We knew that representing Singapore on this stage came with pressure, so that win meant a lot. I don’t score many goals, so I was really pleased to chip in and help the team.”
They continued their strong start with a gritty 1-1 draw away at Persib, followed by a convincing 3-1 win at Port — racking up seven points from a possible nine. But the group stage would soon take a dramatic turn.
Midway through, the Sailors surrendered back-to-back two-goal leads — first falling 3-2 to Persib at home, then suffering a 4-2 loss away to Zhejiang — defeats that threatened to derail their hopes of progressing to the knockout rounds.
“Those games were really tough,” recalled Toni. “We were 2-0 up against Persib with just minutes left, and somehow ended up losing. I remember standing on the pitch, asking myself over and over again how that even happened. Losing that and then the game against Zhejiang… those were bitter pills to swallow.”
As the Sailors struggled to close out games, Hariss — nursing a persistent heel injury — could only watch helplessly from the sidelines. After that opening win against Zhejiang, the 34-year-old was limited to just 58 minutes of action in the group stage, with his leadership sorely missed on the pitch.
“It was a very frustrating period for me — there was a lot of pain in my heel,” said Hariss. “Not being able to help the team out there was tough, but I had to stay patient and believe I would come back stronger. Credit to the boys — even with the setbacks, they regrouped and stayed united.”
Heading into the final group game against Port, the Sailors knew their fate was in their own hands: after all, a win would secure top spot in the group and a place in the knockouts. And they looked on course after storming to a 2-0 lead early on.
But just like previous matches, Port clawed their way back to level at 2-2 by the hour mark — and it looked as though the Sailors might be on the verge of another painful slip-up. This time, though, Ranko’s men held their nerve and stayed focused on getting the win.
“There was something different in us during this game,” said Toni. “Even after they came back, we still believed we could turn it around. Everything was still in our hands, so we put the mistakes behind us and gave everything for the rest of the match.”
With tensions rising and the game finely poised, Song Uiyoung delivered arguably the biggest moment of his career — rifling a bicycle kick into the top corner in the 67th minute to restore the Sailors’ lead. The goal sent the Jalan Besar crowd into raptures, with a deafening roar echoing through all four corners of the stadium, energising every player on the pitch.
“There was still some time left after Song scored that amazing goal, but the game felt won — we just knew we could see it through,” said Toni. “The atmosphere was incredible. Being so close to the fans gave us that extra 10% on top of the 100% we were already giving.”
The Sailors went on to exorcise the ghosts of their earlier group-stage collapses, as they put five past Port to secure top spot and advance to the Round of 16.
From there, the challenges only got tougher. In the knockout stages, the Sailors had to navigate past established sides like Thailand’s Muangthong United, Japan’s Sanfrecce Hiroshima, and Australia’s Sydney FC — but time and again, they rose to the occasion.
That stroke of luck came in the form of an administrative oversight by Sanfrecce, who fielded an ineligible player in the first leg — a game they had initially won 6-1. The result was later overturned and replaced with a 3-0 awarded win to the Sailors.
It proved to be the perfect springboard for the Singapore outfit. A composed 1-1 draw at home in the return leg was enough to send the Sailors through to the semi-finals, where they faced Sydney FC. Once again, Ranko’s charges rose to the occasion — surviving a nervy 90 minutes in the away leg to progress to the final with a 2-1 aggregate victory.
Looking back on the team’s fairytale run, Hariss credited their success to the unity and collective spirit that runs through the squad.
“We’re blessed with a good mix of quality players and leaders, but the truth is no individual can carry us through the season alone,” he said. “Of course, players like Maxime and Shawal can make a difference, but this is a team sport. From the goalkeepers to the strikers, everyone is just as important.
“Credit must go to the whole group, because everyone stepped up when it mattered most. We all had a part to play in this.”
Having suffered group-stage exits in the previous two continental campaigns, those setbacks have only fuelled the Sailors’ determination to come back stronger. As one of the few players to have been through every step of that journey, Hariss believes those disappointments have forged a deeper hunger and unity within the squad — qualities now driving their success this season.
“We’ve been in promising positions both domestically and on the continental stage in recent years, but we never quite managed to make them count,” reflected Hariss. “That said, those experiences were invaluable. They’ve helped us grow — not just as individual players, but as a team, on and off the field.
“Our progress this season speaks for itself, but now it’s about putting on a performance in the final and finishing the job.”
For Toni, even after playing hundreds of games in top competitions like LaLiga 2 and earning caps for the Croatian national team, he believes that — given the journey he and the Sailors have been on — the upcoming ACL Two final is undoubtedly the biggest match of his career.
“Winning the ACL Two would be the biggest triumph of my career so far,” said Toni. “This team is special. I’ve been at many clubs, but none have had the same brotherhood and togetherness that I’ve found here at the Sailors.”
“Everyone’s talking about the final and trying to get tickets — it shows how much Singaporean football needs this success. This Sunday will feel like a National Day for everyone who loves the game here. And hopefully, by the end of it, we’ll be celebrating with the whole of Singapore.”
When Sailors midfielder Nurhidayu Naszri first picked football as a co-curricular activity in Primary 3 at Telok Kurau Primary School, she never imagined that such a simple decision would kickstart an incredible journey.
“I chose to play football because my dad was a huge fan, and I wanted to follow in his footsteps,” explained the 21-year-old. “Being the eldest in the family, I decided to step up and give the sport a try. But back then, I wasn’t very serious about it — I was quite relaxed and never thought I’d go competitive.”
But that gradually changed over the years. As Ayu grew more involved in the sport, her love for the game deepened. And, with a desire to push herself further, she began attending club and national team trials — a bold step that required a complete shift in her mindset.
“Although I enjoyed football a lot, the journey hasn’t been easy,” she reflected. “The competition was intense and I wasn’t as naturally gifted as many of my peers. So I had to put in double the effort — 200% in every training session and match.”
Her perseverance has since paid off. Ayu is now a regular fixture in Daniel Ong’s Sailors side, which has begun their 2025 Women’s Premier League (WPL) campaign in dominant fashion — the reigning champions have won four of their first five matches, scoring 28 goals and conceding just three.
Eight of those goals came in a resounding 8-0 victory over Geylang International last Saturday, with the Sailors netting 17 times in their last two outings.
“That win meant a lot to us,” said Ayu. “We came into the game determined to redeem ourselves after last year’s loss. It was a real team effort — everyone was focused and fully committed for the full 90 minutes.”
The midfielder opened the floodgates for the Sailors, tapping in a cross from Sarah Zu’risqha in the 16th minute to give her side an early lead. It was Ayu’s second goal of the season, having also found the net against Balestier Khalsa earlier in March.
“I’m honestly surprised to have started the season with two goals, as scoring was something I struggled with last year,” admitted Ayu. “Throughout my football journey, I’ve mainly focused on creating chances and providing assists. I never really saw myself as a goalscorer — but now, I’m looking to build on this and contribute even more to the team.”
Just over a month ago, the Sailors were handed a timely reminder of how challenging the season would be, after being held to a goalless draw by Hougang United.
“That game was a wake-up call for all of us,” Ayu recalled. “It demanded a response, and we delivered by putting in extra work during training. It really showed the strength of our team mentality. We stayed united, nobody let their heads drop, and we bounced back from that minor setback with purpose.”
Having joined the Sailors from BG Tampines Rovers in June 2024, Ayu is now approaching her first full year at the club — an experience she describes as both challenging and deeply rewarding.
“As a young player, I never imagined myself playing for a big club like the Sailors,” said Ayu, who earned her first senior cap for Singapore at just 17. “From the moment I signed, everyone has been incredibly supportive and helped me settle in. It’s a real honour to be here, and I’m truly grateful to be part of such a fantastic team.”
A major turning point in her career came in 2023, when she suffered a serious anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury that kept her out for almost a year. Joining a team stacked with national stalwarts and top local talent, Ayu knew she had to work doubly hard to earn her place on the pitch.
“I signed for the club just after completing nine months of rehab,” she shared. “Having been out for so long, I was definitely behind in terms of fitness, strength, and match sharpness.”
“It was a tough time — both physically and mentally — but the constant encouragement from my teammates and coaches really kept me going. Their support gave me the push I needed to stay focused and keep working my way back.”
Nonetheless, setbacks like these have shaped Ayu into the player — and person — she is today. And now, the 21-year-old is beginning to reap the rewards of her perseverance, emerging as an increasingly influential figure in the Sailors’ midfield.
“Joining the Sailors has really empowered me to believe in myself,” said Ayu. “I’ve grown more confident in my decision-making and in stepping up whenever the team needs me. A lot of that growth is thanks to the coaches, teammates, and staff who’ve played a big part in shaping me as a player.”
Now fully fit and firing, Ayu is ready for a blockbuster top-of-the-table clash against Albirex Niigata (S) this Sunday (18 May). The two sides last met in early March, with the Sailors coming from behind to edge a hard-fought 2-1 victory in the season opener.
With the title race already heating up, Daniel knows how crucial every point will be — especially against a rejuvenated Albirex side eager to reclaim the crown.
“We won the league by just a single point last year, so this game could make a big difference,” said Daniel, who identified Japanese trio Kana Kitahara, Ruriko Takashima, and Manami Fukuzawa as Albirex’s key attacking threats.
“Their frontline is dangerous, so we’ll need to work even harder to track their movements and close down the spaces. And when they press us, we must stay calm, be confident on the ball, and trust in our passing game.”
Recording a second league win over the White Swans would send out a statement of intent from the Sailors. But Ayu knows it will be far from easy.
“They’ll come at us even stronger this time, so it’s crucial we stay sharp and cut out the simple mistakes,” she said. “There’s no room for complacency, as the league is much more competitive this season. But we’re fully focused on the goals we’ve set as a team. For us, every league match is a final.”
The Lion City Sailors fell to a 1-0 defeat against Balestier Khalsa at the Jalan Besar Stadium on Wednesday (14 May) night, but the result did little to dampen the celebratory mood as they were officially crowned the 2024/25 Singapore Premier League (SPL) champions by night’s end.
Having wrapped up the title this past weekend with a narrow win over Tanjong Pagar United, the Sailors rotated heavily with one eye on this Sunday’s Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) Two Final against Sharjah FC.
Despite the result, there were still positives for the Sailors to take. Making his first SPL appearance for the club, goalkeeper Adib Azahari impressed with a superb double save just 13 minutes in to deny former Sailor Abdil Qaiyyim and Balestier’s Cher Garang.
Dutch midfielder Bart Ramselaar also made his return from injury and almost marked it with a bang, as he rattled the woodwork with a powerful free-kick shortly after.
But it was Balestier who found the breakthrough in the 31st minute. Another ex-Sailor, Kodai Tanaka, coolly converted from the spot after Ali Alrina was adjudged to have brought him down in the box — a goal that ultimately settled the contest.
Meanwhile, Zulqarnaen Suzliman looked sharp on his first start for the club since suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury in March 2024. The 27-year-old showed no signs of rust, and produced a perfectly timed challenge in the 50th minute to deny Anton Fase from doubling Balestier’s lead.
At the other end, Obren Kljajić came close to pulling the Sailors level just four minutes later — his firm header off a Hafiz Nor cross seemed destined for goal, but was kept out by a stunning acrobatic save from Balestier custodian Hafiz Ahmad.
Head Coach Aleksandar Ranković used the closing stages to hand opportunities to the Sailors’ next generation. Sixteen-year-old Andy Reefqy replaced Bart in the 75th minute and slotted straight into central midfield, while Enrico Silveira, Henry Spence, and Danie Hafiy were also introduced late on.
All four are key figures in the Sailors’ Under-21 side, which clinched the SPL Under-21 title with two games to spare last month. They were fittingly recognised at half-time, as they paraded the trophy on a night of double celebration.
The final whistle eventually confirmed just a fourth defeat for the Sailors in 31 league matches this season — but it mattered little. The night belonged to the champions, who toasted their second league triumph since the club’s inception in 2020.
Donning specially designed Champions Tees for the trophy presentation, the Sailors lifted the 15kg, 67.5cm SPL trophy high into the night sky — the reward for a season defined by grit, consistency, and collective belief.
“I said before the game that it was going to be a beautiful night, and it’s a well-deserved title for the club,” said Ranko, who guided the Sailors to glory in his first full season in charge. “I’m proud of the team, proud of my staff, and proud of everyone at the club. It’s something we’ll all remember.”
Reflecting on the match, he added: “Tonight was a game with no pressure, and the boys who played did really well. It’s not easy stepping in with a completely new line-up, so the result doesn’t matter too much. The young players haven’t had many minutes, but I’m glad I could give them a taste — to let them feel what it’s like to be part of a night like this.”
While this marked a second SPL title for seasoned Sailors like Hariss Harun, Hafiz Nor, and Song Uiyoung — all of whom returned to the club at the start of the season after a year away — it was a maiden league triumph for local stars such as Shawal Anuar and Lionel Tan, as well as European stalwarts Maxime Lestienne and Bailey Wright.
But even as the celebrations unfolded pitchside with family members, Bailey was quick to shift the focus to the next challenge — Sunday’s ACL Two Final, where the Sailors are aiming to become the first Singaporean club to win a major Asian football title.
“It’ll be something truly special — no team from Singapore has done this before,” said the 32-year-old, who has earned 29 caps for Australia. “These kinds of games don’t come around often, and we’re relishing the chance to put Singapore football on the Asian map.
“The belief and togetherness in this team has grown so much this season. We’re starting to believe that anything is possible. I’ve played in high-pressure games like the English Championship playoffs and World Cup qualifiers, and this is right up there as one of the biggest challenges of my career.
“It’s exciting knowing that 10,000 fans will be behind us, and we’re determined to put on the best possible showcase of what this club, and Singapore football, is all about.”
After a dramatic climax to the 2021 Singapore Premier League (SPL) season, the Lion City Sailors clinched their maiden league title at Jalan Besar Stadium with a 4-1 win over Balestier Khalsa — albeit in front of just 1,000 fans due to then-imposed Covid-19 safe management measures.
Three seasons on, with restrictions fully lifted and the title already wrapped up, the Sailors will once again hoist the league trophy at Jalan Besar — after facing Balestier on Wednesday (14 May). Only this time, it will be in front of a capacity crowd.
The Sailors were officially crowned 2024/25 SPL champions after a gritty 1-0 victory over Tanjong Pagar United at the Jurong East Stadium, a result that gives them an unassailable eight-point lead over BG Tampines Rovers with two games to go.
They were made to work hard by the resilient Jaguars, but the Sailors’ defence — marshalled by the experienced Bailey Wright and local stalwart Lionel Tan — held firm to secure the crucial three points.
“Looking back, the league has been more of a marathon than a sprint,” said Lionel as he reflected on the year-long campaign. “Just like any race, the start and the end are always the toughest — and that was the case on Saturday. But what’s most important is that we seized every opportunity to earn points, and I’m glad we did that.”
Lionel, who already has two Singapore Cups and a Community Shield to his name, can now proudly call himself a league champion for the first time in his career. Lining up alongside seasoned centre-backs like Bailey and Toni Datković, the 27-year-old has been a key figure in a backline that has conceded just 31 goals this season — the fewest in the league.
“It’s the first league title for me and for some of the other players as well, and it feels amazing,” said Lionel. “We’ve worked incredibly hard all season because, at the end of the day, it’s all about consistency. For a club of the Sailors’ stature, it’s not just about individual growth — we want to push ourselves as a team and win as many trophies as we can.”
But this title-winning campaign did not come without its share of doubts. The Sailors’ credentials were tested early on, most notably in a shocking 5-0 home defeat to BG Tampines Rovers in July 2024, followed by a 3-1 loss to Albirex Niigata (S) just a month later.
“I still vividly remember that 5-0 loss — it was incredibly difficult to swallow,” Lionel recalled. “We had to iron things out quickly, so we came together right after the game and spoke openly, man to man. We knew what had to change and how crucial it was to move forward. If we had let that result define us, we wouldn’t be where we are today.”
That turning point proved to be a rallying cry for the Sailors. Following the defeat to Albirex, they went on a 16-game unbeaten run in the league — a stretch that lasted until this April. It was a campaign that demanded more than just consistency; it called for real mental resilience, something Lionel credits as being central to his own growth.
“I’m very happy with how much I’ve grown — not just on the pitch, but off it as well. It’s something not many people would notice, but the ups and downs I’ve faced this season have really helped me mature mentally as a player,” he shared.
“All of us have been fighting and putting in the work day in, day out to achieve our goals. This has been one of the longest league campaigns of my career, so lifting the trophy really is the perfect way to end it.”
But before they lift the SPL trophy, the Sailors will need to navigate past a determined Balestier Khalsa side looking to play party-poopers. Despite the league title already secured, Lionel emphasised that the team would not be easing up.
“No matter the circumstances, everyone who puts on the Sailors shirt must bring that character and winning mentality to the pitch,” he said. “The way we fight for the badge should never change — and we’re confident that whoever lines up on the day will give everything to finish strong and take home the three points.”
And as the final whistle nears on a long, hard-fought SPL campaign, Lionel paid tribute to the loyal group of Sailors fans who have stood by the team through every twist and turn.
“I really hope the fans turn up in full force on Wednesday,” he said. “They’ve been with us at every single game, and we’ve built a strong bond over the season. So it would mean a lot to lift the trophy and celebrate this triumph together with all of them.”
The Lion City Sailors have officially reclaimed the Singapore Premier League (SPL) crown after edging past Tanjong Pagar United 1-0 at the Jurong East Stadium on Saturday (10 May).
A coolly-taken penalty by Maxime Lestienne in the first half proved enough to seal the victory and secure the club’s second SPL title — their first since 2021.
While BG Tampines Rovers kept their title hopes alive earlier in the evening with a 2-0 win over the Young Lions — thanks to goals from Itsuki Enomoto and Kyoga Nakamura — it ultimately wasn’t enough, as the Sailors’ victory gave them an unassailable eight-point lead with two games to spare.
“It feels like a big weight is off our shoulders now — winning the SPL was our main target this season,” said Sailors Head Coach Aleksandar Ranković.
“After playing more than 50 matches across all competitions, this is an unbelievable achievement. I’m extremely proud of every single player and our backroom staff for the tremendous job they’ve done. It’s been a long journey, and everyone has worked so hard to get us here.”
Having suffered a surprise defeat to Geylang International in their previous outing, the Sailors were determined to bounce back — and had the perfect opportunity to seal the SPL title against bottom-placed Tanjong Pagar.
Former Jaguars captain Akram Azman, who joined the Sailors in the January transfer window, lined up against his former club as Ranko fielded a strong XI for this crucial game.
The early exchanges saw the Sailors dominate possession in Tanjong Pagar’s half, though without truly threatening Matt Silva’s goal — until Maxime decided to take matters into his own hands.
A trademark piece of trickery from the Belgian winger drew a foul from Marcus Mosses in the box, and after a VAR review, the referee pointed to the spot. Maxime made no mistake, coolly firing straight down the middle to give the Sailors a 1-0 lead — and net his 14th SPL goal of the season in the process.
Maxime came close to adding a second in the 40th minute when he pounced on a misplaced pass from Silva, but his first-time lob sailed just over the bar.
The Sailors nearly doubled their advantage just before the break, when Diogo Costa’s pinpoint corner found Toni Datković, only for the Croatian defender to head wide from close range.
Reflecting on the performance, Toni said, “When you’re striving for perfection, you’re never fully satisfied. Today wasn’t as easy as we expected.
“But we fight for each other — always. That’s why they call us the best defence in the league.”
Truth be told, however, the Sailors’ stellar defence — the best in the league this season — was rarely troubled by Noh Alam Shah’s men.
The pattern remained unchanged in the second half, with Maxime continuing to torment the Tanjong Pagar backline down the left flank. The Belgian looked a constant threat the whole, and often left defenders chasing shadows.
In the 53rd minute, substitute Song Uiyoung picked out Maxime in space, but the latter’s curling effort failed to hit the target.
The Sailors pushed hard for a second goal to put the game to bed, with chances falling to Shawal Anuar, Maxime, and Diogo Costa. But Silva stood firm, as the Tanjong Pagar custodian produced a superb double save in the 82nd minute to deny the Sailors a much-needed cushion.
“I know that in matches like these — especially when there’s a title on the line — nerves can play a part. I won’t lie, at one point I was a little scared because anything can happen in a split second,” admitted Ranko.
“I’ve got to give credit to Tanjong Pagar. They defended well and made things really tough for us today.”
In the 84th minute, Maxime came close once more, only to see his goal-bound effort headed off the line by Mosses, who is currently on loan at Tanjong Pagar from the Sailors.
With the clock ticking down, Ranko turned to the experience of Hariss Harun and Christopher van Huizen to help see out the result as the Sailors held firm to clinch a gritty 1-0 win — and with it, their second SPL title.
“It was an Italian-style 1-0 win tonight,” quipped Ranko. “Honestly, this has been the hardest season of my life.
“Let’s not forget, we’ve done this with a relatively small squad — we don’t have 30 players to rotate. But we’re still hungry. There are more trophies to fight for, and we’re not done yet.”
The Sailors return to SPL action in midweek with a clash against Balestier Khalsa — their penultimate league fixture — before attention turns to a historic showdown next weekend: the Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) Two final against UAE side Sharjah FC at the Bishan Stadium.
Anticipation is reaching fever pitch in Singapore, with tickets snapped up well in advance to watch the Sailors — the first-ever Singaporean club to compete in a continental final — take a massive step towards history in their bid to win the ACL Two.
“We’ve still got a league game against Balestier on Wednesday that we want to win — we’re aiming to break as many SPL records as we can, whether it’s goals scored or number of wins,” said Ranko.
“After that, all our focus shifts to the ACL Two final. I don’t need to motivate anyone for that game — everyone in Singapore is waiting for it!”
