After an impressive start to their 2026 Women’s Premier League (WPL) campaign, league leaders Lion City Sailors Women return to Choa Chu Kang Stadium this Friday (20 February) for what promises to be their sternest test yet against third-placed Geylang International.

The Sailors have scored more than 10 goals in three of their four matches so far while keeping four clean sheets, underlining both their attacking fluency and defensive solidity. However, with Geylang boasting quality across the pitch, greater control and discipline will be required to secure another three points.

That emphasis on discipline has been echoed within the squad this week, particularly by forward Nur Izzati Rosni.

Rejoining the Sailors this year after two seasons away, the 26-year-old has embraced her role as an impact substitute. She has featured off the bench in all four matches and found the net in three of them.

“I’m grateful to be back with the team. I just focus on working hard, learning and doing my part whenever I’m needed,” she said.

Her influence has been built on careful preparation and sharp tactical awareness from the sidelines.

“I always prepare as if I’m starting. I pay attention to the spaces around my position and how they can turn into attacking opportunities. When I come on, I bring intensity and aim to be decisive in front of goal.

“I also look at how the game is unfolding, the timing of movements and where chances might appear. I try to communicate quickly with the midfielders and wingers so they understand the runs I’m making. Sometimes, one small detail can create a big chance.”

Her contributions reflect a collective ethos within the squad this season.

“Football today is about the entire squad, not just the starting eleven. The starters set the platform, and the substitutes must maintain or raise the level. Training intensity, the coaching staff, the energy on the bench, everything matters. A strong team is built on shared responsibility.”

Off the pitch, Izzati has also taken on a mentoring role for the club’s emerging talents. This includes 14-year-old Ami Kawase, who has made a remarkable start to her debut senior campaign with five goals.

“The step up in intensity and quality has made me think and react faster, both in matches and training, and I’ve really enjoyed that,” said Ami. “I’m happy with the goals, but my main role is to help build up play, so I’ve focused on doing that well.

“It means a lot to me. I’m grateful for the opportunity, and I want to keep improving and helping the team.”

Drawing on her experience with both the Sailors and the Singapore national team, Izzati believes discipline and consistency will be crucial for the younger players’ continued development.

“Talent is everywhere, but professionalism keeps you performing at a high level. I try to show them that discipline and focus are essential, and that every drill has a purpose. The standards in training carry into matches. Small habits, like your concentration, communication, and work rate, make the difference.”

Ami, who joined from Albirex Jurong’s youth ranks, acknowledged the value of that guidance.

“From the senior players, I’ve learned a lot about handling pressure and communicating well with teammates off the pitch.”

Friday’s clash, however, will require more than attacking flair. With rising talents such as Naureen Qadriyah and Rayna Balqis, alongside veteran Farhanah Ruhaizat, posing significant threats, Geylang’s ability to strike quickly in transition has been a key focus in preparations this week.

“Geylang have quality players who will give us a real fight,” said Izzati. “They’re dangerous in transition, especially when they win the ball and move forward quickly. For us, it’s about staying compact and managing spaces well. Small mistakes can be punished.”

For Ami, balancing attacking instincts with tactical discipline will be vital.

“I try to understand what the team needs in each situation. I want to contribute in attack by creating chances, but I also have to track back and fulfil my defensive responsibilities.”

Ultimately, Izzati believes the message is simple as the Sailors prepare for a sterner examination of their title credentials.

“We must control the game and be clinical when chances come. Whether I start or come on, I want to bring energy, make positive movements and help the team get the result.”