Category: News
The Choa Chu Kang Stadium witnessed the Lion City Sailors Women suffer their first setback of the 2026 Women’s Premier League (WPL) season on Friday (13 March) night, as defending champions Albirex Jurong claimed a 2-0 victory in a top-of-the-table clash.
The result brings the Sailors’ unbeaten start to the campaign to an end, while Albirex move three points clear at the summit of the standings.
Yet even in defeat, the team’s spirit remained clear. At the final whistle, there were tears, but also embraces, quiet words of encouragement, and a collective acknowledgement of the supporters who had backed them from the first whistle to the last.
In that moment, the Sailors showed their resolve and determination to pick themselves up and go again.
Both sides entered the match with five wins from five, separated at the top of the table only by goal difference. Albirex had scored 55 goals and conceded just twice, while the Sailors had netted 47 and kept a perfect defensive record.
With both sets of fans in full voice, the stage was set for a fiercely contested encounter, and the intensity of the occasion was evident throughout, with both sides eventually finding themselves in the referee’s book.
“We went in knowing that they are a really physical team,” said Sailors captain Umairah Hamdan, who made her long-awaited return to WPL action after recovering from injury.
“But we didn’t really expect them to manage the game by going down a lot towards the end, and that really killed our momentum. We had to reboot a few times and I guess that was part of their game plan.”
It was a bittersweet return for the 24-year-old, who nonetheless chose to focus on the positives.
“I felt really honoured to make my comeback just in time to face Albirex in a big game. I was really looking forward to this match during my rehab. Despite the result, I’m still really proud to make my comeback today and contribute to my team.”
The Sailors started brightly and almost took the lead in the 14th minute. After earning a free kick deep inside their own half, Umairah attempted to deliver the ball into the box, but her effort bounced dangerously towards goal and had to be tipped away by Albirex goalkeeper Talia Sachet.
The Sailors came even closer in the 25th minute when Eri Kitagawa cleverly backheeled the ball into Nur Ain Salleh’s path. Ain’s shot was parried by Sachet, and Farah Nurzahirah reacted quickest to the rebound, but her follow-up effort drifted just wide.
The closest chance of the half arrived in the 33rd minute following an Albirex error at the back. Ami Takeuchi pounced to win possession and unleashed a powerful effort that struck the underside of the crossbar before bouncing agonisingly on the line and staying out.
“I think we were actually doing really well in terms of building up play and passing,” said Umairah. “But we could have been more composed in front of goal and more clinical with our finishing.
“The biggest challenge today was getting the ball into the net. We created a lot of chances. In terms of transition, we could also have been more compact and more disciplined in our marking.”
And those missed chances came back to haunt the Sailors as Albirex broke the deadlock in the 51st minute when Manami Fukuzawa’s cross found Riho Katayama, who powered a header into the bottom corner.
Just two minutes later, Albirex doubled their lead. WPL top scorer Ruriko Takashima curled a free kick past Sailors custodian Izairida Shakira to make it 2-0.
“In the second half, we tried to be more composed and play to each other’s feet rather than playing into space,” explained Umairah. “We tried penetrating down the middle before switching play out wide.”
“It was really important for us to maintain confidence and morale after we went down. If we had done that better, it might have helped us keep pushing. But we still did our best and were creating chances in the final 10 to 15 minutes.”
The Sailors nearly pulled one back late on when Farah’s cross found substitute Izzati Rosni, who had come on in the 81st minute, but her first-time volley flashed wide of the post.
A long-range strike from Irsalina Irwan deep into stoppage time also failed to trouble the Albirex goal as the visitors held on for the win.
“Our biggest area for improvement is maintaining our morale when we concede,” said Umairah. “We did go a little quiet after the first goal. We need to keep going, keep pushing, and most importantly continue supporting each other.”
While the result sees the Sailors surrender their unbeaten record, there remains plenty of football to be played in the 2026 WPL season as the title race continues to take shape.
Daniel Ong’s charges will next be in action two weeks later when they take on Tiong Bahru on 27 March.
With four clean sheets in as many matches, Izairida Shakira has been a commanding presence between the posts for Lion City Sailors Women this season.
More than that, it is her control of the backline that stands out, with her voice often carrying across the pitch as she organises the defence and keeps the team compact in key moments.
This Friday (13 March) night at the Choa Chu Kang Stadium, however, the 18-year-old will face her biggest test yet as the Sailors take on defending champions Albirex Jurong in the Women’s Premier League (WPL).
Both sides have begun the season in ruthless fashion, piling up goals and victories with impressive consistency. And with the title race already shaping into a tight contest that could come down to goal difference if both teams maintain their form, this encounter could prove pivotal.
The Sailors currently sit second in the WPL standings, behind Albirex on goal difference. The rivalry extends beyond the league table as well, with players from both teams dominating the race for the league’s Golden Boot.
Despite the stakes, Shakira remains confident in the team’s defensive organisation, pointing to communication as a key factor in keeping Albirex at bay.
“Communication is a big part of goalkeeping. I always make sure to talk to my defenders because it helps us stay composed,” said Shakira.
“It’s especially important for players who come on as substitutes, like Nisa (Khairunnisa Anwar), Ayu (Nurhidayu Naszri) or even youngsters like Tyan (Foong) and Remi (Ogawa). There are bound to be nerves at times, so communication at the back helps them settle quickly, especially in high-intensity games like this.”
Leadership within the backline has also been crucial in maintaining the Sailors’ defensive solidity. With captain Umairah Hamdan yet to play a part this season due to injury, the likes of Syazwani Ruzi and Dhaniyah Qasimah have stepped up to marshal the defence.
“Having Wani as captain is a bonus because even without the armband, she always does her job to perfection,” said Shakira. “Knowing she is there with the rest of the defenders gives me confidence. I trust them.”
Albirex’s reputation needs little introduction. The reigning champions boast a wealth of experience and attacking quality, including players who have competed on the international stage.
For Shakira and the Sailors’ defence, staying alert to their key threats will be vital, while the midfield battle could also prove decisive.
“We know Albirex are a very good team with great players, some of whom have played in the FIFA Women’s World Cup,” Shakira noted. “We are aware that Ruriko Takashima, Manami Fukuzawa and Kana Kitahara are key players we need to watch closely.
“They have a strong group of midfielders, but so do we. I’m confident that players like Eri Kitagawa and Ami Kawase will step up, even though it will be their first time facing Albirex as opponents.”
While Shakira’s clean-sheet record has been impressive, the goalkeeper was quick to emphasise that it is a collective achievement.
“I’m proud of the clean sheets, but I can’t take all the credit,” she said. “I wouldn’t have them without my defenders and the whole team, so the credit goes to them.”
With anticipation building ahead of Friday’s clash, the mood within the Sailors camp remains one of confidence and unity.
“Games against Albirex are always tough. They are quick in transition and will try to use that against us,” Shakira said.
“Matches like this are the ones I look forward to most because they allow me to test myself and see how much I’ve improved. Mentally it’s always a challenge, but every training session leading up to the game helps build my confidence.
“With each game, we’re growing stronger and closer as a team. We’re excited for this match and we want to keep improving.”
The Lion City Sailors got off to a winning start in their first home match under new Head Coach Jesús Casas with a comfortable 4-0 win over Geylang International at the Jalan Besar Stadium on Saturday (7 March).
After being held to back-to-back draws in their previous outings, the Sailors responded in emphatic fashion as goals from Shawal Anuar and Anderson Lopes, along with a brace from Toni Datković, saw them become the first team in the Singapore Premier League (SPL) to cross the 50-goal mark this season.
Speaking to fan media outlet SailorFanTalk after the match, Coach Jesús expressed satisfaction with the progress his team has made in a short time, while stressing that there is still more to come.
“It’s not easy to implement our model and ideas within just two weeks, but I’m very happy that we’ve been able to showcase some aspects of our philosophy,” the 52-year-old shared.
“You can see it not just in attack, but also in defence. We are pressing high and aggressively, and we always strive to recover the ball as quickly as possible. Step by step, we are improving.”
That progress was evident early on, as the Spaniard’s charges fashioned the first chance of the evening in the third minute. Akram Azman delivered a teasing ball into the box that found the head of Lennart Thy, but the German forward’s effort drifted narrowly over the crossbar.
Faced with a deep Geylang backline, the home side continued to probe and nearly broke through in the 23rd minute when Tsiy Ndenge unleashed a powerful effort from distance that forced a save from former Sailor Rudy Khairullah.
That near miss seemed to spark the Sailors into life. Just five minutes later, Kyoga Nakamura’s corner found Toni in the box, and the Croatian centre-back expertly diverted the ball past Rudy to open the scoring.
The visitors barely had time to regroup before the Sailors struck again straight from the restart, as Anderson pounced on a loose touch from Joshua Pereira before delicately chipping the onrushing goalkeeper to notch his seventh goal of the season.
Bart Ramselaar then came close to adding a third just before half-time, but his curled shot from outside the box flew narrowly past the post.
In celebration of International Women’s Day on Sunday, three players from the Lion City Sailors Women’s Team — Putri Alyiah Seow and sisters Tia and Tyan Foong — were invited onto the pitch at half-time and presented with flower bouquets in recognition of the important role women play at the Sailors.
The second half began with the Sailors on the front foot once again, as Anderson fired a powerful volley straight at Rudy in the 48th minute.
Eight minutes later, Lennart thought he had added his name to the scoresheet when he beat Rudy with a nonchalant chip from long range, but the effort was ruled out for offside.
But the Sailors’ relentless pressure saw them eventually add a third in the 71st minute. Diogo Costa’s driven cross was met by fellow substitute Shawal, who nodded home decisively from close range with his first touch of the game.
“I was delighted that the plan to bring both of them on worked out, but I have confidence that any player from the bench can make a difference,” said Coach Jesús. “We were lucky with this combination, and I’m sure the rest can do the same as well.”
Diogo was involved again in the fourth goal, as his 79th-minute corner caused a scramble in the box, allowing Toni to lash home the loose ball and claim his first brace for the club.
While the Croatian defender’s goals grabbed the headlines, the Sailors’ defensive discipline also stood out. The Eagles were restricted to no shots in the second half as the reigning champions secured their seventh clean sheet of the season.
Despite picking up the first three points of his tenure, Coach Jesús remained focused on the bigger picture.
“We did well in following the plan today, and I am very happy for the team, the win, and the supporters who came out,” he said. “But this is still not enough. We must constantly demand more from ourselves because there are still many areas where we can improve.”
The Sailors will look to maintain their advantage at the top when they take on Balestier Khalsa at the Bishan Stadium next Sunday (15 March), before facing Tanjong Pagar United at the Jurong East Stadium on 6 April.
“We have a demanding stretch of games at the end of the season against BG Tampines Rovers and Albirex Niigata (S), so we must keep working to build as much momentum as possible.”
For Lion City Sailors full-back Nur Adam Abdullah, the past few years have been a test of patience and perseverance.
After joining the club from Young Lions in 2021, the then 20-year-old enjoyed a remarkable debut season, winning his first Singapore Premier League (SPL) title and being named the league’s Young Player of the Year.
A year later, he played a key role in the club’s maiden Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) campaign, completing the full 90 minutes against regional heavyweights such as Urawa Red Diamonds and Daegu FC.
“I was an unknown young player when I first joined the club, so I knew people were wondering whether I could make the cut,” he said. “I wanted to prove that I was capable, and being able to taste success and play in those big games are memories I will cherish for life.”
However, that momentum came to a halt in September 2023 when Nur Adam enlisted for National Service (NS). For several months, he was unable to do what he loved most — playing football.
“I was flying high and building strong momentum over the past few years, so to go from that to having limited exposure to football was difficult,” he explained. “But I had to accept the transition and the challenges that came with it, as it’s part of the highs and lows in life.”
Refusing to let the setback derail his progress, Nur Adam made the most of every available moment. During pockets of free time in camp, he would head to the gym to maintain his fitness or work on his ball mastery wherever he could.
“I missed football, but my focus was on what I could control,” said the 2018 Dollah Kassim Award winner. “People often say that your career can be affected during your time in the army, but I took it upon myself to maintain every aspect of my game so that I wouldn’t fall behind.”
But the most demanding stretch of his two years of service came in early 2024, when he returned to Young Lions on loan and had to juggle his responsibilities as both a player and a soldier.
A typical day saw him complete his duties at SAFTI Military Institute in the far west of Singapore from 8am to 5pm, before grabbing a quick bite and heading for training in Kallang from 7pm to 9pm. By the time Nur Adam made it back to his home in Jurong, it was usually past 10.30pm.
“Sticking to such a routine was tough because I didn’t have time for much else,” he said. “But every time I stepped onto the pitch, all the fatigue and worries disappeared because I could finally enjoy playing football. Not everyone has the opportunity to do that while serving NS.”
After a long 797-day wait, Nur Adam finally pulled on the Sailors shirt again in a league match against Young Lions last October, and fans were once again treated to his trademark rampaging runs down the left flank.
“I can finally call myself a full-time professional footballer again,” joked Nur Adam. “It felt special to be back playing for the Sailors. Instead of feeling pressure to perform, I reminded myself to enjoy every minute and prove that I could still compete despite the time away.”
The 24-year-old made his 67th appearance for the reigning SPL champions in their recent 3-3 draw against Albirex Niigata (S). Although a natural left-back, he came on in the second half to fill in at right-back for Akram Azman.
“I initially thought I would be playing on the left, but Coach Jesús (Casas) told me he trusted that I could do the job at right-back,” said Nur Adam. “That reminded me of the first time I played there under former coach Kim Do-hoon during the 2022 ACL campaign.
“Although that was the last time I featured in that position, playing there at a high level gave me valuable experience. It can feel a little awkward at times as a left-footer, but what matters most to me is being ready to give my best anywhere on the field.”
Adding to the challenge, Nur Adam found himself up against Albirex winger Ryang Hyon-ju, who had already opened the scoring in the first minute. Nonetheless, it was a battle the full-back embraced, as he produced a composed display against the former North Korea Under-23 international.
“I was studying his play while warming up and noticed that he likes to cut inside to shoot,” said Nur Adam. “So I paid extra attention to my positioning to force him down the outside. As a left-footer playing at right-back, I had to be careful with how I tracked back and approached him.”
The match ended in dramatic fashion when Sailors goalkeeper Ivan Sušak became the first goalkeeper to score in the SPL, volleying home from a 98th-minute corner to rescue a point.
“My reaction to that goal said it all,” Nur Adam laughed. “When I saw Ivan coming up, I already had a feeling something might happen. With Diogo on the ball, you know his deliveries will always cause problems, and that was exactly what happened.”
While it was not the ideal start to newly appointed Coach Jesús’s tenure, Nur Adam believes the Sailors will continue to improve as the squad adapts to the Spaniard’s ideas.
“It takes time for us to understand and execute his philosophy, but there are already plenty of positive signs,” he said. “We are confident we can adapt to his tactical approach, which is geared towards an attacking and entertaining style of football.
“As a person, Coach Jesús is very respectful and always checks in on the players and staff. Beyond the professionalism he brings, he is focused on instilling a strong winning mentality. It’s an honour to learn from someone with his background.”
With his full focus now back on football, Nur Adam is determined to make every training session count while helping to raise standards across the squad.
“Nothing will change for me, no matter who the coach is. I will keep fighting and giving my best in every training session so that I never leave the pitch with any regrets,” he said.
“We all compete for our places, but more importantly we push each other to improve. Everyone in the squad must be ready on matchday, and that comes from building strong relationships within the team.”
The Sailors’ next SPL assignment comes on Saturday (7 March), when they face a wounded Geylang International side that has claimed just one win in their last seven league matches. Despite the Eagles’ struggles following the departure of top scorer Tomoyuki Doi, Nur Adam is taking nothing for granted.
“Playing against Geylang is never easy because they still have players who can hurt you,” he said. “We are taking this match very seriously as we cannot afford to drop any points. Everyone is committed to giving their all to secure the victory.”
With the Sailors looking to maintain their lead over BG Tampines Rovers at the top of the table as the season enters its final stretch, Nur Adam is clear about the team’s objective.
“All of us share the same mentality, which is to win as many games as possible,” he said. “We know what we are capable of, and our goal is to lift the league title at the end of the season.”
A new chapter under Jesús Casas began in dramatic fashion on Saturday (28 February) night, as goalkeeper Ivan Sušak struck deep into stoppage time to secure a 3-3 draw for the Lion City Sailors against Albirex Niigata (S) in the Singapore Premier League (SPL).
In a contest that swung relentlessly from end to end at Jurong East Stadium, the Sailors fought back twice before Ivan’s extraordinary late intervention preserved their unbeaten start to the 2025/26 campaign.
Goals from Anderson Lopes and Tsiy Ndenge had earlier hauled the Sailors level after they conceded twice inside the opening 14 minutes. But when Albirex regained the lead midway through the second half, it seemed the hosts would spoil Jesús’s first game in charge, until the final twist arrived.
“We made a lot of mistakes tonight,” admitted the former Iraq head coach.
“It’s impossible to win with these kind of mistakes, but in the end I think the final score is fair. We still have to improve on some aspects, but this was a good and demanding challenge.”
The Sailors were rocked almost immediately, as just 39 seconds in, Ryang Hyon-ju cut inside and found the net to register the fastest SPL goal of the season.
Albirex doubled their advantage in the 14th minute when Ryang’s low delivery caused confusion in the box, before Hariss Harun unfortunately turned the ball into his own net under pressure from Abdul Rasaq Akeem.
Having conceded more than once in a league match for the first time this season, the Sailors responded with urgency. Bart Ramselaar went close on two occasions, while Diogo Costa struck the base of the post as momentum gradually shifted towards the Sailors.
And their persistence finally paid off in the 39th minute, when Tsiy drew a foul from Zulqarnaen Suzliman inside the area. Anderson stepped up to convert from the spot to reduce the deficit before the break.
“It’s not easy when you concede such an early goal,” Casas said. “At half-time I spoke to the players and wanted to lift their energy.”
The introduction of Shawal Anuar and Lionel Tan after the break injected further impetus. In the 54th minute, Diogo’s dangerous free-kick was only partially cleared, Shawal headed the ball back into the box, and Tsiy reacted quickest to fire home the equaliser.
Albirex, however, were not done. Komei Iida rose highest from a corner in the 66th minute to restore their lead and put the Sailors under pressure once more.
The visitors pushed hard for the equaliser in the closing stages, with Hassan Sunny producing a crucial save in the 94th minute to deny Shawal from close range.
But the Sailors’ equaliser did eventually come, and it came from the most unlikely source.
In the 98th minute, Ivan ventured forward for a final corner in a last roll of the dice. Diogo’s delivery dropped invitingly, and the Croatian goalkeeper produced a superb left-footed volley into the net, becoming the first goalkeeper to score in SPL history.
“It was not our best game tonight, but I’m happy the goal helped my team,” said Ivan.
“It’s a new energy in the dressing room, but we need some time to fully get to grips with how Coach Jesús wants us to play.”
The draw keeps the Sailors unbeaten alongside title rivals BG Tampines Rovers, who defeated Hougang United earlier this matchweek. While their lead at the top has narrowed to five points, having played a game more, Jesús remains confident.
“I have only been here for three days, but I am optimistic about the future,” he said.
The Sailors return to action next Saturday, 7 March, when they host fifth-placed Geylang International at the Jalan Besar Stadium.
When Jesús Casas speaks about Lion City Sailors, his calm exterior gives way to a clear sense of purpose, and each word is delivered with unmistakable conviction.
“I left Iraq for almost 10 months and there were some offers, including the Honduras national team,” he revealed in his first interview with the club. “But I was waiting for the right moment, and this is it. This is the project.”
For Jesús, the decision was about more than just the role.
“It’s a very attractive project for me and my staff, for my family. The Training Centre is amazing, with all the facilities required. The staff is very professional and I’m very excited to be here.
“I want to help this project, to improve the players and the club.”
A move nearly four years in the making
Few may know that discussions between Jesús and the Sailors first took place in late 2022, when the head coach position was vacant. On that occasion, the Spaniard opted instead to take charge of the Iraq national team.
What followed was a memorable two-and-a-half-year spell with the Lions of Mesopotamia, where he led them to their first Gulf Cup triumph in 35 years and oversaw an impressive 2023 AFC Asian Cup campaign, which was highlighted by a famous 2-1 group-stage victory over Japan.
And although his contract with Iraq was terminated in April 2025, his impact on the team has endured. Indeed, the outpouring of messages from Iraqi fans on the Sailors’ Instagram page following his appointment spoke volumes about the bond forged during his tenure.
#graciasitaq #thanksiraq #شكرا للعراق pic.twitter.com/pKekRu7LQw
— Jesús Casas (@jcasas4444) April 15, 2025
“It was a great experience because we really connected with the people there,” he said. “We were the first foreign staff to live in Iraq all the time. The Iraqi people are like Andalusian people from Spain, very warm and welcoming. The connection was amazing.
“I love Iraq and I wanted the best for them, and I think the fans felt the same way.”
Despite his premature departure from the Iraq national team, Jesús leaves with pride in what was achieved. After all, they remain just one match away from qualifying for their first FIFA World Cup since 1986, with an inter-confederation play-off against either Bolivia or Suriname in late March.
“We won nine matches, had three draws and two losses in the qualifiers, so we’re part of this journey,” he said. “I hope they win the play-off. I’ll be very happy if they reach the World Cup.”
Inspired by the very best
Jesús’ football education was shaped at the highest level under one of the brightest minds in modern football: Luis Enrique. Over eight years, he worked alongside the current Paris Saint-Germain manager — first as a match analyst at FC Barcelona (2014–2017), then as assistant coach with the Spain national team (2018–2022).
“He’s undoubtedly one of the best coaches in the world,” Jesús shared. “I learnt so many things from him, both from a tactical and personal standpoint. Many things I implement now come from that experience.”
As such, Jesús is clear about his football philosophy.
“My philosophy is to win and enjoy playing with the ball. I want my team not just to keep possession, but to use the ball to score goals. If you have the ball, it’s easier to win. If the opponent has the ball, it’s not good for you.
“My football is about time and space. The more time we have the ball, the better it is for us.”
Nonetheless, he is equally pragmatic, and admits he is open to adapt and change should the need arise.
“I have a philosophy, but that doesn’t mean I cannot change. Football is about evolution. We have to adapt day by day and find the best way to win with the players we have and their individual qualities. But I trust our players here. They are all of a good level.”
Building success for the Sailors and Singapore
Having made a tangible impact in Iraq, Jesús now hopes to leave a similar mark in Singapore.
“When we were in Iraq, our target was not just to win, but also to develop football in the country. Here, we also want to contribute to football in Singapore, and help the national team by developing better players.”
With a contract running until June 2028, the long-term ambition is clear: build a squad and playing identity capable of dominating domestically while competing strongly in Asia.
But first, there is immediate business to attend to.
“Success is winning, it’s that simple,” he said, referencing Diego Simeone’s famed mentality. “Now we focus on the league. We have 10 matches until the end of the season. After that, we prepare for next season and compete for the league, AFC Champions League Two and the Shopee Cup. Step by step.”
And his message to the Sailors faithful?
“All I can say is we will give 100 percent effort in every match. There will be moments when things are not perfect and we will need your support.
“But we will try to make sure we enjoy this journey together.”
Highly regarded as a combative all-action midfielder, it came as little surprise when Tsiy Ndenge attracted interest from top European clubs such as FC Copenhagen and AEK Athens last summer.
As such, his decision to move to Singapore was seen as a coup for the Lion City Sailors, and he has since proven his worth with a series of impressive performances.
Tsiy’s quality was evident in the recent draw against title rivals BG Tampines Rovers, where the German-Cameroonian produced a commanding display in midfield and came close to finding the net himself.
“We started the game well and deserved to go in front early,” said Tsiy, who has already made 26 appearances for the club. “However, we couldn’t maintain our rhythm, and the game became more even. We did our best to create chances, but I feel we could have played better and taken three points.”
One of the Sailors’ headline arrivals at the start of the season, Tsiy has impressed with his consistency, which he credits to the strong bonds within the squad. He has formed a particularly close friendship with defender Lionel Tan, with the pair often spending time and having meals together off the pitch.
“I adapted quickly because the staff and players were really welcoming, which created a good environment for me,” he explained. “When I’m free, I focus on recovery and speak to my loved ones in Germany and Switzerland.”
That bond will be crucial as the Sailors enter a decisive stretch in their pursuit of back-to-back Singapore Premier LeagueS titles.
“Going out of both international competitions was disappointing because we wanted to challenge on all fronts,” said Tsiy. “But it gives us extra motivation to win as many points as possible and finish the league strongly.”
Tsiy has already experienced domestic success in Singapore, having played the full 120 minutes as the Sailors defeated BG Tampines in the Singapore Cup final last month. Lifting the first major trophy of his senior career has only sharpened his appetite.
“Winning my first league title would be huge. That is why I came here – to win trophies,” said Tsiy. “There are still many games left, so we must stay focused and keep winning.”
A fresh chapter now begins under newly appointed head coach Jesús Casas, who was unveiled earlier this week. The 52-year-old arrives with strong international pedigree, having most recently led the Iraq national football team and previously served as assistant coach of the Spain national football team.
After taking part in Jesús’s first training session, Tsiy is encouraged by what he has seen.
“Coach Jesús brings fresh ideas,” he said. “He wants us to play proactive, attacking football and enjoy ourselves on the pitch. Everyone is motivated to work hard for him.”
While continuing to anchor midfield with energy and authority, Tsiy is also determined to add more goals to his game. He opened his Sailors account last December in an Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) Two victory over Selangor FC, as he unleashed a powerful strike to end a lengthy scoring drought.
“It was frustrating at first because I missed chances and hit the bar a few times,” he admitted. “Scoring in that match felt very good, and I want to contribute more goals moving forward.”
The Sailors’ attention now turns to a stern test against Albirex Niigata (S) at Jurong East Stadium on Saturday (28 February). The White Swans have won five of their last six matches and boast an in-form striker in Shingo Nakano, who has scored 15 goals in 16 appearances across all competitions this season.
“I know every team is eager to beat us,” said Tsiy. “But we have to focus on ourselves. We want to show our quality, continue adapting to Coach Jesús’s ideas, and give the fans a performance they can enjoy.”
The Lion City Sailors are pleased to announce the appointment of Jesús Casas as our new Head Coach.
The 52-year-old Spaniard has signed a deal to lead the Sailors through to the 2027/28 season, reflecting the club’s continued ambition to build on its domestic success and improve its performances on the continental stage next season.
Casas joins the Sailors after operating at the highest level of the international game in Asia, having served as Head Coach of the Iraq national team from November 2022 to April 2025. During his tenure with the Lions of Mesopotamia, he guided them to several creditable performances, most notably at the 2023 AFC Asian Cup in Qatar where Iraq recorded a memorable 2-1 victory over tournament favourites Japan.
That win ensured Iraq topped their group for the first time since their victorious 2007 campaign, although they narrowly missed out on a place in the quarter-finals.
Casas also led Iraq to glory in the 2023 Arabian Gulf Cup, securing their first title in the competition in 35 years.
Prior to his appointment with Iraq, Casas held the role of assistant coach at English Premier League side Watford in 2018. He then joined the Spain national team as assistant coach, a role he held until 2022. During that period, he worked alongside current Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique and with several world-class players including Sergio Ramos, Sergio Busquets and Rodri.
Bringing with him extensive international experience, strong tactical acumen and a progressive, possession-based attacking philosophy, Casas’ appointment underlines the Sailors’ commitment to elevating standards within Singapore football. He will be tasked with building on the club’s domestic achievements and leading the Sailors to greater success on the continental stage.
Casas will take charge of his first training session as Sailors Head Coach later this week, and will be on the touchline when the Sailors take on Albirex Niigata (S) in the Singapore Premier League (SPL) at the Jurong East Stadium on Saturday (28 February).
The Lion City Sailors stretched their unbeaten start to the 2025/26 Singapore Premier League (SPL) campaign to 11 games after a 1-1 draw with title rivals BG Tampines Rovers at the Jalan Besar Stadium on Sunday (22 February) night.
Having won their opening 10 league fixtures, this was the first time the Sailors dropped points this season. Nonetheless, they remain seven points clear at the top of the table, albeit having played a game more than their closest challengers.
Labelled the “Interim Derby” by local media, with both sides led by interim head coaches, the match lived up to its billing as Lennart Thy’s opener was cancelled by Koya Kazama in an absorbing and closely fought contest.
“I think we can consider this as a good result for us,” said Sailors’ interim head coach Varo Moreno.
“Of course, we wanted to win. We created a lot of chances over the 90 minutes, but sometimes you have to accept a draw.”
The opening exchanges resembled a tactical chess match, with both sides probing cautiously before the Sailors struck first.
BG Tampines had not trailed in any of their league matches this season, but that record ended in the 21st minute when Bart Ramselaar’s beautiful cross was expertly guided home with a deft flicked header by Lennart.
It was Bart’s eighth SPL assist this season, while Lennart moved on to nine league goals. The German now sits level with the Stags’ Hide Higashikawa, and is just one behind Albirex Niigata (S) forward Shingo Nakano in a fierce three-way race for the Golden Boot.
The Sailors nearly doubled their advantage a minute later. Lennart found space again, but 16-year-old BG Tampines goalkeeper Kasey Rogers, making his SPL debut, produced a sharp save at close range.
But Robert Eziakor’s men gradually grew into the game, as Seiga Sumi fired wide from distance in the 36th minute before Kazama restored parity on the stroke of half-time with a well-taken free-kick.
The second half followed a similar pattern to the first, with both teams battling for control. But the Sailors came close to taking the lead again following the introduction of Shawal Anuar in the 64th minute. Kyoga Nakamura released Lennart, whose low cross flashed across goal and was turned behind by Shuya Yamashita just before Shawal could apply the finishing touch.
The Sailors continued to press against a tiring BG Tampines side and in the 71st minute, they came agonisingly close to reclaiming the lead when Bart’s powerful effort from range crashed off the crossbar.
At the other end, Higashikawa tested Ivan Sušak at the near post, but it proved to be the Stags’ best opportunity of the second half as the Sailors’ defence held firm.
Both sides introduced fresh legs in the closing stages, with Christopher van Huizen and Dylan Fox entering the fray. Substitute Anderson Lopes nearly had the final say, but his late attempt sailed over as the points were shared.
“It was a very good game for the fans,” added Varo. “I had confidence in my players and they carried out most of what we worked on during the week.”
The Sailors now turn their attention to another stern assignment as they travel to the Jurong East Stadium on Saturday (28 February) to face third-placed Albirex Niigata (S). The Sailors recorded a 3-0 victory over the White Swans earlier in the campaign and remain confident of maintaining their momentum in the title race.
“Of course, there are still many matches to play,” said Varo. “But we believe we are in a strong position and we want to keep pushing all the way.”
Coming off a blistering 2024/25 campaign, Shawal Anuar has picked up where he left off this season.
With nine goals to his name already, the 34-year-old has carried his rich vein of form into the new year, scoring in four of his last five domestic outings, including the recent 7-0 demolition of Tanjong Pagar United.
“The team did well overall and we are happy to come away with the win. We followed what the coaching team had planned and were efficient at both ends of the pitch,” said Shawal.
“My target is to score or assist in every game, as that is my job. I want to contribute and make an impact in every game, so I always give everything on the field.”
That comprehensive victory saw the Sailors equal a club record of 10 consecutive league wins, and they now sit seven points clear of second-placed BG Tampines Rovers — albeit having played a game more.
“All of us are very clear on what we want to achieve. After how things have gone for us in other competitions, we are out to extend this winning streak in the league as much as we can and make more history for the club,” Shawal added.
However, the Sailors will face what is arguably their sternest test of the campaign when they meet BG Tampines in a top-of-the-table clash at the Jalan Besar Stadium this Sunday (22 February).
The Stags are unbeaten in nine Singapore Premier League (SPL) matches this season, including winning their last six.
“I think this is the game of the season for us,” said Shawal. “Tampines have quality foreign players and play good attacking football, but we have been preparing well.”
BG Tampines are blessed with plenty of firepower at the other end of the pitch, with forward Hide Higashikawa leading the scoring charts with nine goals — one more than Lennart Thy, while playmaker Koya Kazama is joint-top of the assist standings along with Bart Ramselaar with seven.
“It will be a game that comes down to fine margins, so we need to stay focused right from the first whistle,” said Shawal, whose stunning halfway-line strike against the Stags last season was named Goal of the Year.
“Winning this game will put us in a strong position, and we are ready and driven to go for the three points.”
The tenure of interim Sailors Head Coach Varo Moreno, who took charge of the team following the departure of head coach Aleksandar Ranković earlier this month, has begun brightly, with the Sailors scoring nine goals and conceding none in his first two matches.
Shawal believes that Varo’s familiarity with the team has played a key role in ensuring continuity on the pitch.
“We achieved a lot with Coach Ranko, and we were all sad to see him go. But Coach Varo is a familiar face and knows many of the players, so it was easy for us to adapt to his methods,” explained Shawal.
“All of us are professionals, so it does not matter who is in charge. We just have to keep giving our best for the coach and the club.”
With the reigning SPL champions intent on protecting their lead at the summit, Shawal has called on the Sailors faithful to turn out in full force.
“We’re very grateful to the love shown by our fans throughout our highs and lows, and we need their presence in the stands again for this big game,” he said.
“Their support gives us extra motivation to push on in the pitch, and we’re looking forward to seeing them again on Sunday.”
