Author: Lion City Sailors
When Kyoga Nakamura first arrived in Singapore football in 2019, he did so in the colours of Albirex Niigata (S). Appointed club captain, the young midfielder wasted little time in making his mark, delivering a string of eye-catching performances that earned him a place in the Singapore Premier League Team of the Year, as well as a nomination for Young Player of the Year.
Yet for many fans, Kyoga is more readily associated with the chapter that followed. After leaving Albirex in 2020, he joined BG Tampines Rovers, where he went on to spend five formative seasons. Across 158 appearances in all competitions, he established himself as a key figure and a firm fan favourite, before departing in June 2025 for a brief stint with Bangkok United.
Those five years at the Stags were defining not just professionally, but personally. Kyoga became a father to two daughters, gained Singapore citizenship, and donned the Lions jersey for the first time.
So when the opportunity arose to join the Lion City Sailors, it was never going to be a straightforward decision. Given the deep bond he shared with BG Tampines and their supporters, and the long-standing rivalry between the two clubs, Kyoga found himself torn.
In the end, however, his desire to keep pushing his limits prevailed, as the midfielder put pen to paper on a two-and-a-half-year deal with the firm conviction that the Sailors can help him take the next step in his career.
“I spent almost six years at BG Tampines and made so many good friends there, so I thought hard about whether I should join the Sailors,” Kyoga admitted in his first interview after signing. “But ultimately, I want to improve and challenge myself as a player. I believe the Sailors will give me the perfect platform to do that, and that’s why I decided to come here.”
Kyoga’s hunger to succeed has been evident from a young age. A Chiba native, he was once regarded as a hot prospect in Japan and was part of the national side that featured at the 2013 FIFA Under-17 World Cup. But with opportunities at the highest level proving hard to come by back home, Kyoga had no qualms about moving to Singapore seven years later to carve out a new path in his career.
That same drive was evident again last June, when he chose to step out of his comfort zone and seek a fresh challenge with Bangkok United. Trading familiarity in Singapore for one of the region’s most competitive leagues, Kyoga embraced the test, and while his half-season spell may not have caught the eye of some, it proved to be a deeply enriching experience.
In total, Kyoga made 17 appearances for the club, featuring in continental competitions such as the Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) Two and the ASEAN Club Championship (ACC) Shopee Cup. He also netted a memorable long-range strike in a 4-1 Thai League 1 victory over Prachuap FC.
“It felt longer than six months, to be honest, because we played so many matches there,” Kyoga shared. “It was a tough situation because there are many quality players in midfield, both local and foreign. Even in training, you can feel how high the level is.
“But that taught me how to stay positive and how to handle difficult situations. It was a really good experience for my development as a footballer.”
Kyoga was born in Japan, but Singapore is where he now calls home, and where his heart firmly lies. He believes it offers the most supportive and stable environment for his wife and two young daughters, and that played a decisive role in his return to Singapore football.
“I was thinking seriously about my long-term plans, and from a family perspective, it made more sense for me to be in Singapore than Thailand,” Kyoga explained. “Most importantly, my family is happy with this choice, and we’re excited to start this new chapter together.”
With a strong Singaporean core already in the squad, Kyoga also admitted that keeping the move quiet proved challenging while paperwork and formalities were being finalised.
Kyoga, who counts Lions teammates Lionel Tan and Christopher van Huizen among his close friends, recalled, “Of course, I couldn’t say anything until everything was officially done. But a few players were already asking if I was going to join the Sailors, and I couldn’t give them any answers.”
Over the years, fans of Singapore football have taken to Kyoga not just for his technical quality and tireless energy on the pitch, but also for the infectious personality he brings off it. Always smiling and engaging with supporters, his positivity has become a defining part of who he is.
He will now bring those same qualities to the Sailors, where he is determined to be a positive influence both on and off the pitch.
“I have a lot of respect for the Sailors from when they were my opponents,” Kyoga said. “Now I’m really happy and confident to be part of this team. I know expectations are high at this club, but I love challenges.”
While not the loudest voice in the dressing room, Kyoga believes in leading by example.
“I’m not so talkative, but I try to lead through my actions, my behaviour and my attitude,” he explained. “I also like to help the young players improve, whether it’s before or after training.”
Fans will also be pleased to know that Kyoga will continue sharing glimpses of his life through his YouTube channel, which he started during the COVID-19 pandemic, as he begins this new chapter.
“I’ve already taken some videos here in Mattar,” he said with a grin. “I have fans in Japan who don’t really see how I live in Singapore. I want to connect with them, and ultimately, I hope more people become interested in the SPL and now in the Sailors.”
Kyoga will now spend at least the next two and a half years with the Sailors wearing the number 46 on his back, a choice that carries deep personal meaning.
It is the number worn by his late childhood friend, Wataru Nakayama, during their time representing their elementary school together. Wataru tragically passed away at the age of 10 in a traffic accident in 2006, which Kyoga learned only after reading about it in the newspapers.
“I decided to wear number 46 because it feels like I’m playing together with him,” Kyoga shared. “We used to talk about our dreams of becoming professional footballers, so he’s very important to me. Every time I step onto the pitch, I think about honouring him.”
As fate would have it, Kyoga’s Sailors debut could come against BG Tampines Rovers in this Saturday’s (10 January) Singapore Cup Final at the Jalan Besar Stadium.
Kyoga admits it will be an emotional occasion, but insists he is fully capable of balancing respect for his former club with his responsibility to his new one.
“When I realised the match could be against BG Tampines, my first reaction was, ‘Wow,’” he said. “I achieved many milestones there and I still have many friends at the club, so of course there will be a lot of emotions.
“But now I’m really looking forward to facing them as opponents. I’m with the Sailors now, and I understand the expectations here are to compete for, and win, every trophy possible.”
Sailors fans also showed Kyoga plenty of love when the team faced Bangkok United away at True BG Stadium in December, a gesture that left a lasting impression on him and only deepened his excitement about pulling on the white and blue.
“I remember that game very clearly,” Kyoga said. “So many Sailors fans came all the way to Thailand to support the team. I was really surprised that they also cheered for me and called my name after the match, so I’m very happy that I can now play for them.”
As for what lies ahead, Kyoga is focused less on numbers and more on commitment.
“I don’t want to talk about how many goals or titles,” he added. “All I can say is that I will try my best every single day, on and off the pitch. I want to enjoy being part of this team and create many memorable moments together.”
And perhaps fittingly, the first of those moments could come this Saturday.
The Lion City Sailors are delighted to announce the signing of Japan-born Singapore international Kyoga Nakamura on a two-and-a-half-year contract, which runs until the end of the 2027/28 season.
The 29-year-old midfielder joins the Sailors after terminating his contract with Thai giants Bangkok United, and arrives with a reputation as one of the region’s most cultured and intelligent midfield operators.
Kyoga’s move marks a return to Singapore football, where he established himself after beginning his professional career in Japan’s J3 League. He spent six seasons in the Singapore Premier League (SPL), making his debut in 2019 with Albirex Niigata (S), before clocking up the majority of his 141 domestic league appearances with BG Tampines Rovers over the next five years. He left for Bangkok United in June 2025, where he made 17 appearances in all competitions.
Over the years, Kyoga has endeared himself to the local football fraternity with his relentless work rate, warm personality and deep affinity with Singapore, which is underlined by his desire to represent the national team. The Chiba native – who played for Japan at the 2013 FIFA Under-17 World Cup – was granted Singapore citizenship in October 2024, and has since earned 17 caps for the Lions, playing an influential role in the nation’s historic qualification for the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Asian Cup on merit.
Named in the SPL Team of the Year in 2019, 2020, 2022 and 2023, the left-footed midfielder is set to add creativity, vision and composure to the heart of the Sailors’ midfield as the club gears up for a crucial second half of the season, with three competitions still to fight for.
The Sailors are bidding to retain both the SPL and Singapore Cup trophies which they won last season, while also aiming to reach the semi-finals of the ASEAN Club Championship (ACC) Shopee Cup for the first time.
“Kyoga is a player we have admired for some time. He brings calmness and a strong positional sense in midfield, understands how to control the tempo of a game, and is one of the top players in Singapore football. That level of quality is exactly what we want in our squad. His experience and hunger to succeed are qualities that will boost us as we push on in the coming months,” said Sailors Head Coach Aleksandar Ranković.
Sailors Sporting Director Luka Lalić added, “The opportunity to sign someone of Kyoga’s calibre was something we couldn’t pass up. His arrival reflects our intent to build for the long term while continuing to compete at the highest level.
“He is already proven in Singapore football, and his work ethic, leadership and professionalism will raise standards within the team. We’re excited to see the impact he can make in the months ahead.”
Kyoga’s first appearance in Sailors colours could come in a fittingly symbolic encounter — the Singapore Cup final on 10 January against his former club BG Tampines — as he embarks on the next chapter of his storied career.
“I’m very happy to be part of the Sailors. This is a club with big ambitions, high standards and a clear vision,” said the midfield maestro. “Singapore is my home, and I’m delighted to be back here and to represent the Sailors for the next few years.
“I’m going to give my all for this club and help us fight for every trophy. We have a great mix of local and foreign players here, and I’m confident we can finish this season strongly together.”
The Lion City Sailors are pleased to announce the signing of Serbian winger Luka Adžić, who joins the club on a deal until the end of the season following the mutual termination of his contract with Thai League 1 side Bangkok United.
The 27-year-old wide attacker adds quality and depth to the Sailors’ attacking options, bringing with him flair, creativity, and a consistent threat from set pieces. Comfortable operating on either flank, Luka is known for his direct dribbling, clinical finishing in tight spaces, and a sharp eye for creating chances for others.
Luka comes with a strong European footballing foundation, having come through the famed Red Star Belgrade Academy before making his first team debut for the club in 2016. He subsequently featured in the top-flight leagues of Belgium, the Netherlands and Turkey, turning out for clubs such as Anderlecht, Ankaragücü, FC Emmen and PEC Zwolle, before returning home for a fruitful spell with Čukarički between 2022 to 2024 – one that included scoring directly from corners twice in the same Serbian SuperLiga match in March 2024.
His impressive performances with Čukarički earned him a move to Southeast Asia in July 2024, when he joined Bangkok United. His one-and-a-half-year spell with the Thai side included several continental appearances, notably a goalscoring cameo against the Sailors in a 2-1 victory at Bishan Stadium in the AFC Champions League Two last November.
Luka’s arrival provides a timely boost for the Sailors as they prepare for the Singapore Cup Final against BG Tampines Rovers on 10 January, while also aiming to defend their Singapore Premier League title and reach the ASEAN Club Championship (ACC) Shopee Cup semi-finals for the first time.
“Luka is a player who gives us something different in wide areas – very strong in one-on-one situations, sharp in tight spaces, and capable of both scoring and creating goals. His playing style fits our philosophy perfectly, and I’m confident he will excel here,” said Sailors Head Coach Aleksandar Ranković.
Sailors Sporting Director Luka Lalić added, “This signing reflects our intent to remain competitive on all fronts. Luka’s quality and experience add another dimension to our attack, and we believe he will integrate well into the team both on and off the pitch. We’re delighted to welcome him onboard as we head into a crucial phase of the season.”
Having already played – and scored – against the Sailors, the 1.84m Luka is now eager to help the club achieve its ambitions.
“I’m really happy to be here and grateful to the club for believing in me,” said the former Serbian U21 international, who will wear the No. 28 jersey. “I’ve followed the club’s journey and this is a project that truly excites me. I can’t wait to show my abilities, and I promise to give everything for the badge during my time here.”
It was a night heavy with emotion at Jalan Besar Stadium on Saturday (20 December), as the Lion City Sailors sealed their place in a third straight Singapore Cup final, but the result was arguably secondary to the farewell of one of the greatest players ever to wear the badge: Maxime Lestienne.
Taking to the pitch for the final time in Sailors colours, Maxime walked out alongside his wife Kiara and his three children – Gabriel, Rafael and Alizee – before being presented with a specially designed #17 memento by Club Chairman Forrest Li.
The Belgian was also handed the captain’s armband for only the second time in his four-year long Sailors spell, and from the first whistle, every touch of his wand-like left foot drew an extra roar from the stands.
Sailors Head Coach Aleksandar Ranković admitted the night carried a unique emotional weight.
“Let’s be honest, this game was played in a different vibe,” he reflected. “I can imagine sometimes it’s tough for the players to focus because we wanted to play for Maxime. Still, reaching the final three times in a row is a great achievement for the club.”
Amid the emotion, however, the Sailors still delivered. A 1-0 victory on the night to complete a 5-1 aggregate win over Balestier Khalsa ensured a repeat of last season’s final against BG Tampines Rovers, who defeated Albirex Niigata (S) 5-3 over two legs.
As the teams marched out from the tunnel, Sailors fans unveiled a giant tifo in the home stands in tribute to Max, setting the tone for an emotional night.
That famous wand-like left foot was on display for one last time when Maxime picked out Shawal Anuar with a teasing cross in the seventh minute, only for Mario Mustapić to punch it clear.
Just two minutes later, Balestier handed the Sailors the breakthrough after a defensive lapse, when Lazar Vujanić’s short pass to Mustapić was intercepted by Shawal, who finished at the second attempt.
Tsiy Ndenge then tried his luck twice from distance, but both efforts drifted off target as the Sailors carried their 1–0 advantage into the interval.
After a slow start to the second half, Maxime sparked the game into life in the 67th minute, taking a deft touch before trying to curl one into the far corner, only for Mustapić to tip his effort away.
Then, the moment Maxime and the home fans had been waiting for arrived six minutes later, when the Sailors were awarded a penalty after a handball by Balestier defender Mario Šubarić.
Up stepped the Belgian, and with his trademark blend of confidence and flair, he attempted a cheeky Panenka. Unfortunately, Mustapić guessed correctly and denied Maxime a final Sailors goal.
“I have scored many penalties in my career but never a Panenka, so I said for the last game if I get a penalty, I wanted to try a Panenka. It didn’t pay off in the end, but honestly we were already in a very strong position to reach the final, so I knew that whether I scored or not, it would not affect the outcome,” explained Maxime.
At the other end of the pitch, Izwan Mahbud dealt calmly with a Vujanić free-kick, before Maxime delivered an exquisite floated cross that Toni Datković headed just over the bar.
Then came the moment that gave Sailors fans the chance to say their goodbyes.
In the closing stages, the fourth official’s board lit up with No. 17 as both teams formed a guard of honour for Maxime, who made his final walk off a Singapore pitch to the applause of supporters who had sung for him all evening before being substituted by fellow Sailors centurion Hafiz Nor.
The outpouring of love for Maxime continued long after the final whistle, as he was tossed into the air by his Sailors teammates before walking out once more with his family for a final lap of honour at Jalan Besar.
A tribute video then played on the stadium’s big screen before Max took to the microphone to deliver his parting message to the fans, with the Belgian visibly emotional and in tears as he spoke.
Many fans also stayed behind long after the post-match proceedings had ended, as they waited patiently outside the stadium to get their final photos and autographs taken with the Sailors icon.
“I’m a bit tired and a bit sad, but I also feel very proud,” said Maxime after the game in an interview with SailorFanTalk. “Even on the pitch, it was difficult for me to focus. I’m very proud of these four years during which I gave my best for the club.”
Meanwhile, Ranko paid tribute to a player he regards as one of the best, if not the best, to have played club football in Singapore.
“He’s unbelievable. And it’s not only Maxime’s legacy at this club, but also his impact on football in Singapore. I don’t think a player of his calibre has played here before, so we are going to miss that kind of quality and personality.”
Maxime leaves the Sailors with an incredible return of 70 goals and 97 assists in 131 matches, a body of work that firmly cements him as one of the club’s most influential players.
As he reflected on his time in Singapore, he recalled several standout moments: his long-awaited first goal against Tanjong Pagar United, two stunning free-kicks against Geylang, an unforgettable hat-trick against BG Tampines, and the rare celebration that followed his goal in the 2025 AFC Champions League (ACL) Two Final.
“That goal in the final… normally, I never celebrate, but I did,” he smiled wistfully. “We all know the story, what happened after. Maybe that’s my only regret. But I won everything collectively and individually. I’m proud of what I achieved with the club, and what we all achieved together.”
The 33-year-old, who has played in the UEFA Champions League with PSV Eindhoven and enjoyed spells in Serie A and La Liga, now heads back to Europe to decide his next step.
“I will talk to my family and make my decision after New Year’s Day. I don’t know yet if I’ll stop or continue somewhere else. It’s difficult to stop playing, but even if this is the end, I’ll be very happy.”
The Sailors will now turn their attention to their showdown with BG Tampines Rovers on Saturday, 10 January, after a short break. Victory would make them only the second side after Albirex Niigata (S) to lift the Singapore Cup three years in a row.
For Maxime, a lifelong Sailor at heart, a new journey now awaits. As for the team he leaves behind, the quest for silverware continues, carried forward by a legacy that will endure long after No. 17 has left the pitch.
He left with one final message for the Sailors: “This club deserves everything. I hope they win the cup final and the league. I wish them all the best and I will try to follow every match now.”
Maxime Lestienne’s glittering spell with the Lion City Sailors will draw to a close on Saturday (20 December) night, as the reigning Singapore Cup holders take on Balestier Khalsa in the second leg of the competition’s semi-finals at Jalan Besar Stadium.
After 10,298 minutes and 130 appearances in Sailors colours, Max will pull on the white and blue for the final time in what is set to be an emotional occasion for the Belgian, who will take to the pitch with his wife and three children before receiving a special memento from Club Chairman Forrest Li.
Speaking ahead of the match, Max was full of emotion and gratitude as he reflected on a four-year journey that brought both team silverware and personal accolades.
“I’m extremely thankful for everything the Club has done for me from day one, and I can see they’re still doing everything for me even as I prepare to leave. From the coaches, backroom staff and players to the media team, everyone is making sure this chapter ends beautifully,” he shared.
“I’m really looking forward to seeing all our fans for the last time and saying a proper goodbye. They’ve played a big part in where the club is today, and I hope they continue their strong support for many years to come.”
Max’s numbers at the club have been nothing short of remarkable, with 70 goals and 97 assists in 130 appearances to date. And he hopes to reach one more milestone on Saturday.
“I’ve got one last chance to hit 100 assists. It’s difficult, but I’ll try,” he said. “The club gave me everything, so it was only right that I gave my best and showed my qualities in every match.
“It’s been an amazing four years. There have been ups and downs, but I hope people recognise that I’ve always given 100 per cent on the pitch. I’m going to do the same in this last game for the Sailors.”
While much of the attention will naturally centre on Max’s farewell, the 33-year-old is keen to emphasise that the team’s objectives come first.
Fresh off an important midweek win over Shan United in the ASEAN Club Championship (ACC) Shopee Cup, the Sailors now return to Singapore Cup action holding a 4-1 advantage over Balestier after a commanding first-leg display. They are well placed to reach a third straight final, though the Tigers will be buoyed by the return of electric winger Jakov Katuša and eager to spoil the party.
“First and foremost, the focus is on the team. I’ve always said that goals and assists mean nothing if the team doesn’t succeed. We know how important the Singapore Cup is, and we want to make sure we reach another final,” he said.
“Hopefully we get the job done. And one thing is for sure – I’ll be watching the final back home in Belgium on 10 January as the club’s biggest supporter.”
The Lion City Sailors kept themselves in the hunt for a place in the knockout stages of the ASEAN Club Championship (ACC) Shopee Cup with a 3-2 win over Myanmar’s Shan United at the Jalan Besar Stadium on Wednesday (17 December).
Lennart Thy struck twice, while Maxime Lestienne chipped in with a goal and an assist as the Sailors steered their Shopee Cup campaign back on course.
The match also marked the Sailors’ return to the newly re-turfed natural grass pitch at the Jalan Besar Stadium in their first home outing of this season’s competition.
“It was not the most beautiful game. If I think back on the last two and a half years, in terms of quality, this was maybe the least nice game to watch. And that’s not only on the two teams; it was also due to a lot of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) moments. All the ingredients were there for a very ugly match, but I’m just happy that we won,” said Head Coach Aleksandar Ranković at the post-match press conference.
Truth be told, despite the five goals on the night, the match was punctuated by missed chances, injuries and repeated VAR stoppages that disrupted the rhythm throughout.
The visitors had the first sight of goal in the sixth minute with Ye Yint Aung firing over, before Lennart headed wide from a Diogo Costa cross moments later.
The Sailors then came agonisingly close to breaking the deadlock in the 21st minute when Lennart’s cross from the right picked out Maxime, whose sweetly-struck volley crashed off the base of the crossbar.
But the home team did not have to wait long to make the breakthrough. Two minutes later, Maxime drifted into space and clipped a delicate pass into Lennart’s path, and the German showed superb control to bring it down before rifling his shot in off the underside of the bar to give the Sailors a deserved lead.
However, that advantage lasted only four minutes, as a handball call against Toni Datković handed Shan United a penalty, which Matheus Souza duly tucked it away to level the score.
Lennart and Shawal Anuar both had good chances to restore the lead as the Sailors pushed forward, and their persistence finally paid off in first-half stoppage time.
Lennart sparked the move by releasing Diogo down the right, and the full-back’s low cross into the box was cleverly dummied by Shawal, which allowed the ball to roll through for Maxime to sweep home for 2-1.
The goal was the departing Belgian’s 70th for the club, and added to his remarkable haul of 97 assists in 130 appearances since joining from Standard Liège in January 2022.
Despite going into the break with a lead, Ranko acknowledged that the Sailors should have put the game to bed long ago.
“My players should demand a little bit more from themselves. We should have finished this game a long time ago and at least scored one or two more goals,” said Ranko.
Maxime looked to add to his tally after the restart, but his effort flew over in the 64th minute. Anderson Lopes and Lennart then both forced saves from Kyaw Zin Phyo as the Sailors pressed hard for a third goal.
Yet, against the run of play, Shan United hauled themselves level once more in the 66th minute through Ryuji Hirota, who picked up a loose ball at the edge of the area and unleashed a thunderous drive which went in off the post to make it 2-2.
But the Sailors responded almost immediately, as two minutes later, Anderson slipped a clever pass into the box for Lennart, who produced a sublime backheel finish for his 12th goal of the season to restore the lead, drawing a roar from the 1,543 fans in attendance.
“There needs to be more adjustment, but of course I’m a different player on the wings than somebody else. That’s how I like to interpret myself. I think in this match I showed that I can play in a different position,” said Man of the Match Lennart, who impressed in a slightly altered role on the wings and underlined his attacking versatility.
The tempo eventually dipped in the final quarter of the match, but the Sailors managed the game well and closed out the contest without further incident.
By the end of the game, Ranko’s charges had recorded 23 shots to Shan United’s four – a clear reflection of the Sailors’ dominance in what had been billed as a must-win fixture. The result also marked the club’s second Shopee Cup victory, adding to last season’s triumph over Malaysia’s Kuala Lumpur City (KL City) FC.
More importantly, the much-needed win keeps the Sailors firmly in the chase for qualification to the next round. They now sit three points behind Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) in second place in Group B, with two matches still to play.
“We’re still in the hunt with two matches to go, one away and one at home. It’s not going to be easy, but we’re going to do everything we can to go through,” said Ranko, as his side prepares to face Group B leaders Nam Định on 29 January.
For now, though, the Sailors will turn their attention back to domestic duties, as they look to close out the year on a positive note. Their final match of 2025 comes on Saturday (20 December) at Jalan Besar, where they host Balestier Khalsa in the second leg of the Singapore Cup semi-final, carrying a healthy 4-1 advantage from the first leg.
“It has been a long year, but in terms of matches we haven’t played that many games compared to last season,” said Ranko. “We’re happy to finally be back at this venue, and I would be very pleased if we can finish the year with strong support from our fans in our next match.”
Fresh off their Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) Two exit, the Lion City Sailors are determined to put things right on the continental stage as they shift their focus to the ASEAN Club Championship (ACC) Shopee Cup. Their bid to rebound begins with a Group B Matchday Three clash against Myanmar outfit Shan United on Wednesday (17 December).
Back on familiar turf
The Sailors return to the newly returfed Jalan Besar Stadium – now fitted with a natural playing surface – for their first home tie of the competition. The venue holds special significance for the club, having hosted their continental assignments over the past two seasons, including the historic run to the 2024/25 ACL Two Final.
With just one point from their opening two Shopee Cup matches, the Sailors will be looking to tap into those memories and deliver a decisive response on Wednesday in what is shaping to be a must-win encounter.
But the Sailors’ opponents are no pushovers. Shan United are Myanmar’s joint-most decorated club, having won six of the last seven Myanmar National League (MNL) titles since 2017. They have also gone three seasons without a league defeat, with their 83-game unbeaten run standing as the longest in MNL history.
It has been a different story for Shan United on the continental front, however, with back-to-back 3-0 defeats in the Shopee Cup against Preah Khan Reach (PKR) Svay Rieng and Nam Định leaving them bottom of Group B.
Shan United manager Han Win Aung, himself a two-time MNL champion, acknowledged that his side have struggled with the step up in quality at regional level.
“There is a difference in level between our domestic and regional competitions, as there are a lot more foreigners here, so the quality is higher,” he said.
“It will be difficult for us, as most of the teams are champions of their respective leagues, but the team is prepared to give their best tomorrow.”
Interestingly, this is not the first time Shan United have played in Singapore. They came up against Home United – the Sailors’ previous iteration – twice in the group stage of the 2018 Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Cup before the competition was revamped as ACL Two, including a 3-2 defeat at Jalan Besar in April 2018.
Jalan Besar is also familiar territory for six of Shan United’s Myanmar internationals, all of whom featured in a 3-2 loss to Singapore there in December 2022.
Among them is full-back Hein Phyo Win and current captain Nanda Kyaw (pictured below), who was sent off in that encounter against the Lions.
Headlining Shan United’s foreign contingent is forward Jordan Hamilton, a former Canadian international who previously played in Major League Soccer (MLS) for Columbus Crew SC and Toronto FC, and has won two MLS Cups and three Canadian Championships.
He is joined by Japanese full-back Yuki Aizu – who took part in last season’s FIFA Intercontinental Cup with New Zealand’s Auckland City FC – along with compatriot winger Ryuji Hirota.
Completing the cast are the Brazilian trio of winger Matheus Souza, centre-back Maurício and forward Efrain Rintaro. Ghanaian attacking midfielder Mark Sekyi is ruled out due to suspension.
Gunning for the three points
Like Shan United, the Sailors have endured a less-than-ideal start to their Shopee Cup campaign. They fell 3-1 to Johor Darul Ta’zim before holding Bangkok United to a 2-2 draw – both on away soil.
Now sitting fourth in the group, Head Coach Aleksandar Ranković knows his side have little margin for error as they chase one of the two semi-final qualification spots.
“Just like in the ACL Two, we’re in a very tough group with high-quality opposition. These are the kinds of matches we want to be involved in every year to help us improve,” said Ranko.
“We’ve prepared seriously for this game and analysed them thoroughly. The group is still open, so we will do our best to take three points and put ourselves in a strong position to qualify for the semi-finals.”
Back-to-back continental victories against Persib Bandung and Selangor FC in the ACL Two, along with a dominant win over Balestier Khalsa in the first leg of the Singapore Cup semi-finals, have given the Sailors strong momentum heading into the match.
And flying full-back Diogo Costa, who has featured in all but one of the Sailors’ games this season, believes the team are well placed to carry that form into the Shopee Cup.
“We know how difficult the Shopee Cup can be, but we’re used to such challenges and all of us are confident in our qualities. All of us know we are capable of competing and getting the win, so that will be our objective,” said Diogo.
Returning to Jalan Besar will provide a boost for the Sailors, where their form is traditionally strong at. They were also unbeaten in both Shopee Cup matches played there last season, as they beat Kuala Lumpur (KL) City 2-0 and drew 0-0 with Buriram United.
The team will especially relish the stadium’s intimate setting, which brings them closer to their home fans as they look to close out the year on a high.
“We’re very excited to be back at Jalan Besar, as it holds many great memories for us. Playing there gives us an extra boost as its compact nature allows us to be close to the fans,” said Ranko.
“We hope the supporters can come out in big numbers and back us as they always do. The team is ready to give everything on the pitch.”
The Lion City Sailors took a huge step towards the Singapore Cup final with a resounding 4-1 first-leg win over Balestier Khalsa at the Bishan Stadium on Sunday (14 December) night.
Goals from Bailey Wright, Lennart Thy and Shawal Anuar – all created by the irrepressible Maxime Lestienne – along with a close-range finish from Anderson Lopes helped the Sailors overturn an early setback and placed them on the verge of a third consecutive Cup final appearance.
Speaking after the game, Sailors Head Coach Aleksandar Ranković hailed his side’s character, especially after a demanding midweek trip to Selangor.
“We didn’t start the way we wanted, and perhaps that goal from Balestier served as a wake-up call for us,” said Ranko.
“But the whole team stepped up a gear in the second half, and it was only a matter of time before the goals came. We know the job is only half done, and we’ll approach the second leg with the same mindset.”
The match was played in sombre circumstances following the recent passing of Sailors superfan Tan Shi Cong Jasper. A minute of silence was observed before kick-off, and the team held up a jersey bearing his name in tribute.
In the 17th minute, The Crew led a minute of applause – a gesture tied to Jasper’s favourite number – in a moment that clearly resonated with the players.
“This game carried added importance with the sad news of Jasper’s passing,” said captain Bailey Wright. “We wanted to get the win for him, knowing how much he meant not only to the club and the fans, but to the wider football community.”
Despite the Sailors dominating the early exchanges, it was the Tigers who drew first blood in the 12th minute, when Tin Matić picked out Bogdan Mandic, who guided the ball past Izwan Mahbud to give the hosts the lead.
Shawal nearly provided an immediate response four minutes later, as he rose highest to meet a Toni Datković cross, but Mario Mustapić reacted sharply to push his header aside.
But the Sailors finally equalised in the 29th minute through Bailey, who powered home a header from Maxime’s inswinging corner for his third goal of the season.
Maxime’s influence grew as the half progressed, and eight minutes later, he pounced on a loose ball after Anderson’s initial effort was saved and squared it to Lennart, who produced a trademark swivel before rifling the Sailors into the lead.
While it began to rain after the break, the slippery pitch did little to dampen the Sailors’ momentum and they duly scored a third in the 48th minute.
A stunning team move saw Anderson producing a clever no-look pass into space for Maxime, who raced through before unselfishly teeing up Shawal to tap home for a goal on his 100th appearance for the Sailors.
Meanwhile, by laying on the first three goals of the night for the Sailors, Maxime has now reached 96 assists in just 129 appearances for the club. The Belgian has another two matches to possibly add to that tally before he departs the club later this month.
The reigning Cup champions then extended their lead in the 57th minute through Anderson, who met a Christopher van Huizen cross in the box and steered the ball home from close range.
The Sailors were firmly in the ascendancy and almost added a fifth, but Lennart’s curled effort into the bottom corner was ruled out for a foul in the build-up.
Undeterred, they continued to press for another goal, with Shawal going close in the 71st minute before Anderson forced another sharp save from Mustapić, as Ranko’s charges saw out the match in complete control.
“We now have a good lead going into the second leg, but it could have been better as we were a little slow in the first half,” said Lennart, who was named man-of-the-match. “In the second half, we improved significantly, didn’t give away any chances, and could even have scored more.”
A pivotal week now awaits the Sailors, who have just a couple of days to prepare for their 2025/26 ASEAN Club Championship (ACC) Shopee Cup clash against Shan United on Wednesday (17 December), before returning to Singapore Cup action in Saturday’s second leg against Balestier.
The winners of the tie will advance to the Cup final on 10 January, where either BG Tampines Rovers or Albirex Niigata (S) await, with the former currently holding a 4-0 lead in the other semi-final.
With a demanding stretch of fixtures ahead, Lennart urged his teammates to stay calm and take things game by game.
“We have a few important games coming up, but we’re taking things one step at a time. Our full focus is now on the Shopee Cup this Wednesday, and then we’ll turn our attention back to Balestier.”
In September 2015, Maxime Lestienne was living the dream most footballers his age could only imagine.
At just 23, he was playing in the UEFA Champions League and proving he belonged on the biggest stage, delivering two assists in PSV Eindhoven’s stunning 2-1 win over Manchester United on 15 September, before scoring a clinical brace away at CSKA Moscow a fortnight later.
With three goals and seven assists in just 10 matches across all competitions, it felt as though the world was at Max’s feet.
Then, on 3 October, everything changed.
The PSV squad were travelling by bus to Amsterdam for a league match when Max received an urgent call from his wife, Kiara, asking him to return immediately. As it turned out, his mother had collapsed after a haemorrhagic stroke.
“My wife told me my mum had fallen and that I had to come back immediately. At that time, I wasn’t too worried. But when I reached the hospital, I saw all my family members there and found out she was already brain dead. She passed on the following day,” a visibly emotional Max recounted.
It was a sudden, devastating loss, made more painful by the fact that he never had the chance to say goodbye, and it left a wound that would never fully heal.
But heartbreak was not done with him yet.
A few days later, while going through his mother’s phone, he came across a message that delivered another blow.
His father, Fabian, had cancer and had been given only weeks left to live.
“I didn’t know he was sick,” Max said quietly. “He never told me.” He immediately stepped away from football to spend whatever time remained with his father, who eventually passed on 19 November.
Two unimaginable losses, just over six weeks apart.
It was undoubtedly the darkest period of Max’s life and compelled him to relook his priorities and rethink his perspective on what truly mattered.
“Football is something I love, but family is everything to me,” said Max. “I know now that anything can be taken away in a minute. Sometimes we forget that we have to appreciate everything and every moment with the people we love.”
Max stepped away from football for a few months to grieve before returning to training, although deep down he knew he was no longer the same mentally, emotionally, or psychologically.
Injuries soon followed, and what had begun as a bright season slowly tailed off, with him making only a few more appearances as PSV went on to win the title. In July 2016, he moved to Rubin Kazan in Russia as he sought to rediscover his spark in the game.
But throughout his struggles, both on and off the pitch, Max had one constant source of strength he could always rely on: his wife.
“My family made a lot of sacrifices for me… and my wife, she saved me,” he reflected. “After losing both my parents, I really wasn’t myself.”
New beginnings in an unfamiliar place
After spending more than two years with Rubin, Max joined Spanish outfit Málaga on loan, before returning to Belgium to sign for Standard Liège in 2018. Although this period saw him continue competing at the highest level, including playing in matches against Real Madrid and Barcelona in La Liga, football had begun to feel more like duty than passion.
Matters came to a head at Liège when a disagreement with the club chairman resulted in him being exiled from the first team and forced to train alone for months.
It was during this time that Max, who was part of Belgium’s much-vaunted Golden Generation of players, found himself contemplating walking away from the sport altogether. He received offers from clubs in the Middle East, but none seemed capable of reigniting the spark he had gradually lost.
That was when the Lion City Sailors came calling.
Their offer felt “sincere”, as Max put it, and after years of upheaval, that sincerity carried weight.
“Honestly, we didn’t know anything about Singapore,” he laughed. “But my wife did a lot of research, and from Day One the club made me feel comfortable.”
And so, in February 2022, Max put pen to paper on a two-year deal with the Sailors.
He could never have imagined then that it would mark the start of an unforgettable four-year journey, during which he rediscovered his passion for football, built a deep connection with a club and its supporters, and found a country that unexpectedly became home.
“Magic Max” makes his mark
From his very first season with the Sailors, it was clear that Max brought something special: a spark that lifted the stands whenever he had the ball at his feet. “Magic Max” quickly became a fitting moniker as he chalked up goals, assists, and memorable performances across domestic and continental competitions.
But beyond his impressive numbers, it was the way he played, with flair, intelligence, and bravery, that endeared him to teammates, coaches, and supporters alike.
“When a club gives you everything, you naturally want to give everything back,” he said. “I felt respected here, and that made a huge difference.”
With Max pulling the strings, the Sailors went on to win the Singapore Premier League title, two Singapore Cups, and two Singapore Community Shields, and also embarked on a historic run to the Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) Two final last season, where they were narrowly beaten to the trophy by Sharjah FC.
Having played for nine clubs across seven countries, including Belgium, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Russia and Qatar, Max regards his time with the Sailors as one of the finest chapters of his career.
“Honestly, I have to say this is my best time in football,” shared Max, who penned a two-year extension at the end of the 2023 season. “I stayed so long because my family feels good here. If the family is happy, you can be happy on the pitch and show everything for the team.
“When I renewed my contract after two years, I was very happy and I didn’t want to play for any other club, even in Europe. I really wanted to stay and give my best to this club, and that’s what I think I did.”
Max is currently the third-highest appearance maker for the club, behind icons Hariss Harun and Hafiz Nor. With 10,141 minutes played, Singapore — and the Sailors — became the place where he featured the most in his professional journey, and more importantly, where he felt most at ease.
Special connection with the fans
Even from his earliest matches, Max was wholeheartedly embraced by Sailors supporters, whether through chants of “Allez, Maxime!” or the crowds who waited after games for photos and autographs. It quickly became a routine he looked forward to.
“Their support gives us so much energy,” he said. “Especially during our ACL Two run, when you could really feel their voices pushing us on. It helps us raise our level on the pitch.
“We know we can be better because of them, and many times we do it for them. I hope they continue supporting the club for many years, because the club needs them.”
When asked if any supporter stood out, his face brightened immediately.
“Ah Ma! I know she loves me and I love her too,” he said of the beloved 83-year-old Sailors fan who is a familiar face at matches both at home and abroad. “I admire her passion, and I hope she stays healthy and happy.”
A difficult but necessary decision
But all good things must eventually come to an end, and for Max, his voyage with the Sailors has reached its final port.
While he had initially been keen to renew his contract, which expires at the end of the year, and the club was equally open to extending his stay, he ultimately decided against it in order to honour a promise he made to his family to return home and be closer to their loved ones.
“My kids have everything in Singapore. They study in an international school and train three times a week in the Lion City Sailors Football School. They’re happy here, but I know they sometimes feel lonely and miss family,” revealed Max, whose last game for the Sailors will likely be the Singapore Cup semi-final second leg against Balestier Khalsa on 20 December.
“Whenever we return to Belgium for a holiday, I can feel they’re a bit different from how they feel here, so I think they’re very happy to go back.
“It’s difficult, very difficult, to leave a place where I have loved so much. But when I renewed my contract two years ago, I promised my family this would be my last one. My family is the most important to me. They sacrificed a lot for me, so I can’t ask them to stay longer here. I have to respect them, and I’m happy to do something for them.”
Goals, glory, and gratitude
To date, Max has scored 69 goals for the Sailors, but there is no secret which one meant the most.
It came on 18 May 2025, with the Sailors just minutes away from defeat in the ACL Two final against Sharjah, when a loose ball fell invitingly to him. With one crisp swipe of his left foot, he drilled home a dramatic injury-time equaliser that sent the near 10,000-strong crowd at Bishan Stadium into raptures.
Although the Sailors eventually lost 2-1, that goal remains etched in his heart, largely because of the sheer magnitude of the moment and the atmosphere created by the Sailors fans.
“Honestly, this goal still gives me goosebumps whenever I watch it,” said Max, who admitted he has probably replayed it over 30 times on his Instagram page. “Don’t forget, this club existed for only five years, and it is something amazing for us and for Singapore football to reach the final.
“I didn’t play my best game for the club that night, but I always believed I could score or make something happen to change the game. When I scored, it was in the last minute, in front of a full stadium with a great atmosphere. It was a special feeling, and perhaps my one regret here is not being able to win that trophy in the end.”
Max also pinpointed two significant moments in his Sailors career that he will remember for a long time.
The first was opening his Sailors account in April 2022 against Tanjong Pagar United, and the second was lifting his first silverware with the club, the 2023 Singapore Cup.
“My first goal was against Tanjong Pagar United in April 2022. I didn’t score in my first four games for the club and I know people were waiting for me to score. Once I scored, I didn’t stop, but the first one was hard for me,” he recalled.
“And the first trophy, the Singapore Cup in 2023. Maybe it’s not the biggest trophy, but in my first year with the club I won nothing, so this one was important for me.”
He also expressed his gratitude to the key figures who brought him to the Sailors, and his confidence in the club’s ability to achieve even greater success in the years ahead.
“Firstly, I have to thank our chairman, Mr Forrest Li, and our former sporting director, Badri Ghent, because they gave me the opportunity to play for this club,” said Max. “They gave me respect and trust during a difficult time for me, and I wouldn’t be here today if not for them.
“It’s clear that the club is ambitious, and you can see that with the Training Centre and the development of the Academy. The club also makes sure there are people who take care of everything for us. From the coaches to the physios, to the staff who clean, the logistics officer, the people who take care of the pitches… you don’t see them a lot, but they are all equally important to the club.
“We are here because a lot of people give their best and put their hearts into making everything comfortable for us. So we always try our best on the pitch to give back to them.”
While he knows he will miss his life in Singapore with the Sailors, Max has no doubts that he made the right decision in returning home.
“I know I will miss everyone here. I have made so many friends,” said Max. “I will miss the craziness in the locker room with my teammates, and also my physios who always take care of me. Singapore is a 13-hour flight from Belgium, so I know there are people I may never see again.
“But I am happy with my decision, and I want my family to be happy too.”
Looking ahead to the future
After leaving the Sailors, Max will return to Moorslede, a quiet town near Lille in France where he and Kiara bought a home seven years ago. The slower pace of life appeals to him, and he is looking forward to its simple pleasures.
And what will Max do when he gets back home?
“I think I will work on my garden,” Max replied with a laugh. “It’s Christmas and New Year soon, so I want to make it nice for my family when they visit.
“I also have a passion for horses. I bought a few in Paris, so I will go there often to see them. I’m happy I can follow them more closely now.”
As for his footballing career, Max has no concrete plans yet, and may well call time on his 17-year professional journey. For now, he is simply looking forward to spending his free time with his wife and three children — 10-year-old daughter Alizee, and his two sons, Rafael (8) and Gabriel (7).
“I want to spend more time with my kids, that’s most important,” said the Kortrijk native. “Usually we train in the late afternoons at the Sailors. So when they come back from school, I am going for training. When I come back, they are already asleep.
“Now I have more time with them, and I hope I can follow them everywhere they go and be the best father I can be.”
A Sailor, always
Despite the distance and the seven-hour time difference, Max insists he will continue supporting the club closely from Belgium.
“Of course I will be the number one supporter of this club,” Max declared. “They gave me everything. Even from Belgium, I will try to watch the matches. This club will always stay in my heart.”
And what does he hope people remember him for once he leaves?
“Not just the goals or assists. I want the fans to remember that I always gave everything to the shirt,” said Max.
As he prepares for his final match on 20 December, the chapter closes on one of the most influential players the Sailors have ever seen, a footballer who arrived seeking a fresh start and went on to give the club some of its most unforgettable years.
He came, he inspired, and he leaves as part of the club’s history.
Merci, Maxime.
The Lion City Sailors are set to return to domestic action for the first time since late October as they begin their Singapore Cup title defence, starting with the semi-final first leg against Balestier Khalsa at Bishan Stadium on Sunday (14 December).
They will enter the tie on the back of their Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) Two exit, which came despite a determined 1–0 victory over Selangor FC in Malaysia on the final matchday of the group stage.
Although the Sailors finished level on points with Bangkok United (10) and held a superior goal difference, they missed out on the knockout rounds due to an inferior head-to-head record against the Thai League 1 side.
“It is disappointing to be knocked out of the AFC Champions League Two at the group stage,” said Hami Syahin, who was among the standout performers in the win over Selangor. “But we know we have other competitions to look forward to, and we want to redeem ourselves by winning all the domestic trophies.”
There is little time for the Sailors to dwell on that disappointment, especially with the Singapore Cup semi-final looming large.
Thankfully, summer signing Tsiy Ndenge appears to have hit form at the right time. He opened his account for the club with a second-half winner against Selangor and has earned plaudits for his combative and assured displays in the centre of the park.
Hami, who is equally adept in central midfield, out wide or at right back, was full of praise for Tsiy as the German-Cameroonian midfielder enjoyed his moment in the spotlight.
“Since the pre-season, I have always spoken highly of Tsiy. He has the capability of bringing the ball forward from the defensive line all the way high up the pitch. His shooting ability is something that I am still in awe of to this day,” said Hami.
“He has been a great addition to our team. He has the experience of playing in Europe, and personally, I have learned a thing or two playing alongside him.”
Hami himself has been a valuable asset for the Sailors, with his versatility on display across multiple competitions on both the domestic and continental fronts.
The 27-year-old featured in every match of last season’s Singapore Cup triumph, and has gradually established himself as a key member of the squad.
Indeed, in the ACL Two clash against Selangor, Hami came up against one of Southeast Asia’s most dangerous wingers, Faisal Halim, and managed to nullify his threat for much of the contest.
“It is an honour to play against a player like Faisal. For me, before every game, I try to have a clear state of mind,” said the Singapore international.
“Whether I am playing against Faisal or any other player, my job is the same. I just want to do my job on the pitch and give my all for the team. I focus on what I can control, and hopefully I can perform well in every game.”
Hami is confident that he and the Sailors can carry their momentum into the weekend’s clash against Balestier.
The Tigers have reached the semi-finals for the first time since 2022, following a 2-1 victory over Hougang United last weekend. Tin Matić and Ignatius Ang were on target as Balestier edged through on goals scored.
Half of the team’s 10 Singapore Cup goals have come from Matić, who is enjoying a rich vein of form and currently leads the competition’s scoring charts.
Nonetheless, the Sailors have enjoyed a positive run of results against Balestier. Bart Ramselaar’s hat-trick powered them to a 4-1 victory in last season’s Singapore Cup, while the most recent meeting between the sides ended in a 5-0 win for the Sailors in this season’s Singapore Premier League (SPL).
But Hami is not taking anything for granted. He said, “This is a cup campaign, so it is different from the league. We will focus on ourselves and our performance, and as always, we will go into this game with the same mentality to get a win. I am sure Balestier will also come out strong and try to get a positive result, so it should be a good contest.”
The Singapore Cup offers the Sailors a chance to clinch their first trophy of the season, and it now carries added significance following their continental exit.
Albirex Niigata (S) remain the only club to have achieved three consecutive Singapore Cup triumphs, and Aleksandar Ranković’s side will be aiming to lift the trophy again as they continue their push for domestic dominance.
“As a team, I think we are all on the same page. We want to dominate the local scene. Our target now for the remainder of the season is to win every competition that is on offer,” said Hami.
“We’ve still got plenty to fight for this season. The Singapore Cup means a lot to us, and we’re determined to keep it for another year.”
