Category: News
The Lion City Sailors Women fought bravely in their first-ever Asian Football Confederation Women’s Champions League (AWCL) Group Stage match, but fell 5-0 to Melbourne City at the Thong Nhat Stadium on Thursday (13 November).
Despite the defeat to last season’s competition finalists, Sailors Head Coach Daniel Ong believes his players will take plenty from the experience of competing at the highest level of Asian football.
“It’s tough playing against a professional outfit like Melbourne City. Congrats to them for the win, they were far superior to us. Physically and technically, they knew exactly what they were doing,” admitted Daniel.
New signings Rivka Ramji, Hikaru Shibusawa, and Wang Jiaxin were handed their debuts for the club, with all three named in the starting line-up. Meanwhile, 15-year-old Nur Ain Salleh was also named in the first 11, as she became the youngest-ever starter in AWCL history, and only the second-youngest player to feature in the competition at just 15 years and 310 days old.
In contrast, Melbourne fielded 45-year-old goalkeeper and assistant coach Melissa Barbieri between the sticks, while last season’s AWCL Most Valuable Player Rebekah Stott led a formidable side as captain.
Unsurprisingly, it was the Australian side who took control in the early stages, and it did not take them long to break the deadlock. A handball inside the Sailors’ box prompted referee Oh Hyeon-jeong to award a penalty after a Football Video Support (FVS) review.
Last season’s Ninja A-League top scorer, Holly McNamara, made no mistake from the spot, sending a low effort into the bottom corner in the 12th minute.
Leticia McKenna then tested the returning Izairida Shakira with a couple of efforts, while at the other end, Raeka Ee’s persistence earned the Sailors a corner, though it ultimately came to nothing.
“We went into the game expecting it to be a difficult one. They’re from the A-League and reached the final last year, but I’m really proud of the team for giving 100 per cent despite the challenging pitch conditions,” said Raeka in a post-match interview with Futbolita.
“It’s a huge step up from what we’re used to in Singapore and even in the AWCL Preliminary Stage. We’re so grateful for the opportunity to play against these opponents and to help raise the level of women’s football in Singapore.”
Despite the early setback, the Sailors kept their composure and did well to contain their illustrious opponents for much of the first half.
However, Melbourne’s relentless pressure eventually told in first-half stoppage time, when the Sailors conceded a second penalty. McNamara once again converted clinically to give the Australian side a two-goal lead at the break.
Daniel made a change at the break, introducing Qarissa Putri for captain Umairah Hamdan, but the substitution did little to halt Melbourne’s momentum as they continued to press forward in search of another goal.
While they battled valiantly, the Sailors were finally undone in the 55th minute when teenager Alexia Apostolakis unleashed a stunning strike into the top corner from the edge of the box.
Two minutes later, it was 4-0 to Melbourne as Danella Butrus marked her maiden professional start with a low drive that beat Shakira from a tight angle.
Just past the hour mark, new signings Zhang Qiaoling and Irsalina Irwan (pictured above) came on for the Sailors with the latter making her AWCL debut, while Melbourne substitute Caitlin Karic was denied only by Shakira’s quick reflexes after her effort was stopped right on the goal line in the 66th minute.
However, Melbourne would get their fifth and final goal in the 73rd minute with Dhaniyah Qasimah unfortunately netting an own goal.
The Sailors saw out the final quarter and eight additional minutes without further changes to the scoreline, with Daniel praising his players for their effort in what was an entirely new stage and environment for the team.
“The girls did very well, in my view. In the first half, we conceded two penalties, which was tough on them, but they gave their best. There’s a gap in quality that we have to acknowledge, but it was definitely a good experience playing against a team like Melbourne City,” said Daniel.
Next up for the Sailors is another stern test against hosts and last season’s AWCL semi-finalists, Ho Chi Minh City Women’s FC.
The Vietnamese champions boast a strong side led by Huynh Nhu, who is the national team’s record goalscorer and a true icon of women’s football in her country.
Nonetheless, Sailors Head Coach Daniel Ong believes his side can build on the lessons learnt from the Melbourne defeat as they prepare for their next match on Sunday (16 November).
“I’ll look back on this match and there are a lot of positives to take. We can definitely track our opponents better next time, but overall I’m very happy with the team,” he said.
“It’s just that the fitness levels aren’t quite there yet, because our players have to juggle school or work before coming for training. It’s tough on them, but they did a really good job.”
The Lion City Sailors Women kick off their maiden Asian Football Confederation Women’s Champions League (AWCL) Group Stage campaign with arguably their toughest test yet – facing two-time Ninja A-League Premiership winners and last season’s AWCL finalist Melbourne City at the Thong Nhat Stadium on Thursday (13 November) afternoon.
Up against the best
Hailing from a league regarded as the number one women’s club football competition in Asia, Melbourne enjoyed a remarkable 2024/25 domestic campaign, going unbeaten with 16 wins and seven draws to clinch the Ninja A-League Premiership title.
They also reached the AWCL final in May, where they were narrowly beaten by China’s Wuhan Jiangda Women’s FC on penalties after a 120-minute stalemate.
Captained by New Zealander centurion Rebekah Scott, who has featured at the past three FIFA Women’s World Cups and was named the Most Valuable Player (MVP) in last season’s inaugural AWCL tournament, Melbourne’s squad is packed with quality and experience from back to front.
Partnering Scott in defence is former Everton and Aston Villa veteran Danielle Turner, while their midfield options include Australian internationals Alexia Apostolakis and Leah Davidson.
In attack, they boast two of the brightest young talents in the region — 17-year-old attacking midfielder Shelby McMahon, who scored in both the AWCL semi-final and final last season, as well as 22-year-old Holly McNamara, who finished as top scorer of the 2024/25 Ninja A-League with 15 goals.
Both players continued their fine form over the past weekend, as they netted braces in a convincing 4-0 victory over A-League Championship winners Central Coast Mariners. Crucially, it was a result that extended Melbourne’s unbeaten streak in the league to 29 matches, a run stretching back to March 2024.
Sailors out to defy the odds
Fully aware of the challenge ahead, the Sailors Women remain resolute and determined to put up a strong showing on Asia’s biggest stage.
“When we first entered the AWCL in 2024, we came in with not much information and didn’t know what to expect. We learned from that experience, strengthened the team this year, and we showed that we are capable of challenging at this level,” said Assistant Coach Yeong Sheau Shyan, who stood in for Head Coach Daniel Ong at the pre-match press conference.
The latter is set to join the team in Vietnam on Wednesday (12 November) after attending his ongoing AFC ‘A’ Diploma Coaching Course.
“This is the first time the club qualified for this stage, and it’s really important for our Singaporean players to participate in this tournament,” added Sheau Shyan, who is also the club’s Head of Women’s Football.
“It represents a pathway beyond Singapore for girls in the country to aspire towards — to be more ambitious in their goals and to understand the level they need to reach. All the girls are very excited to showcase what they can do.”
The Sailors have maintained their training intensity for the past month since the conclusion of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) on 5 October, with the team holding four training sessions per week.
While their domestic campaign ended on a disappointing note with a third-placed finish, it has only strengthened their resolve to acquit themselves well in the AWCL.
Having made several key signings and with the influential Japanese duo of Ami Takeuchi and Eri Kitagawa in their ranks, defender Syazwani Ruzi has stated that the team is relishing the chance to test themselves against Asia’s elite as they step into unchartered territory.
“We’ve learned a lot from past lessons and we’re now better prepared to deal with the intensity at this level,” said the 23-year-old, who started all three matches in the Preliminary Stage earlier in August.
“While we’ve strengthened with some foreign signings, we also have a group of really capable local players in the team. Together, I believe we can do well in this competition and put up a good showing for Singapore women’s football.”
The Lion City Sailors Women’s Team have strengthened their ranks with four new foreign signings, adding steel and power as they prepare for their maiden Asian Football Confederation Women’s Champions League (AWCL) Group Stage campaign in Vietnam.
The three-time Women’s Premier League (WPL) champions will kick off Group A action against Australia’s Melbourne City on Thursday (13 November), before taking on hosts Ho Chi Minh City Women’s FC on Sunday (16 November) and Philippines’ Stallion Laguna the following Wednesday (19 November).
Former China youth international Wang Jiaxin joins the Sailors to reinforce a defence marshalled by captain Umairah Hamdan. Known for her tenacious style of play and dominance in the air, the 22-year-old centre-back cuts a composed figure at the back and has the ability to launch attacks with precise long passes.
Also arriving from China is 21-year-old midfielder Zhang Qiaoling, who brings added presence to a midfield anchored by local talents such as Qarissa Putri and Nurhidayu Naszri.
A former Hainan University Women’s Football Team player, Qiaoling is adept at dictating the tempo of play and possesses superb technical ability.
Joining Qiaoling in the middle of the park is Rivka Ramji, a rising talent from India who is known for her two-footedness, dynamism, and creativity in the attacking third.
The teenager was part of the India Under-19 team that won the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Under-19 Women’s Championship last February, and featured in the top-tier Indian Women’s League with Sethu FC in the 2024/25 season.
Completing the Sailors’ new foreign quartet is Japan’s Hikaru Shibusawa, a dependable centre-back who brings experience from the top-tier WE (Women’s Empowerment) League, where she represented Omiya Ardija Ventus between 2021 and 2023.
The 25-year-old, a former Japan Under-19 international, had been playing in the second-tier Nadeshiko League with Bunnys Gunma FC White Star over the past two seasons.
Familiar returning faces and new locals
Hikaru joins compatriots Ami Takeuchi and Eri Kitagawa, who return to the fold after impressing for the Sailors during Preliminary Stage, where they won all three matches to become the first Singaporean club to qualify for the AFC Women’s Champions League (AWCL) Group Stage.
Nineteen-year-old Ami was particularly outstanding, as she scored in all three matches against Etihad Club, Kelana United, and SDYUSHOR SI–Asiagoal.
The other three Japanese players from that campaign — Sakurako Ohashi, Riari Kitaoka, and Miyu Inayama — have since returned to Toyo University.
The Sailors have further strengthened their squad with the addition of three local national players.
Defender Irsalina Irwan has been promoted to the senior team after helping Mattar Sailors clinch the second-tier Women’s National League (WNL) title, while goalkeeper Alysha Nasrina joins from Geylang International to provide more options between the posts.
Speedy forward Nicole Lim also returns to the club where she made her WPL debut in 2022.
However, three key players will miss this campaign, with Beatrice Tan and Putri Alyiah Seow both sidelined by long-term injuries, while Sarah Zu’risqha is unavailable due to work commitments.
The 25-strong Sailors squad will depart for Vietnam on Tuesday (11 November), and Head Coach Daniel Ong believes his side are well-equipped for a competitive campaign.
“Firstly, I’d like to thank the management for their support in bringing these players in. We’re coming up against some of the region’s finest teams at this level, so we had to ensure we assembled a squad capable of competing both physically and technically,” said the 36-year-old.
“Our performances in the Preliminary Stage have given us the confidence heading into the Group Stage, and we’re determined to keep flying the Singapore flag high on this stage. The camaraderie within the team is really strong, and we’re all looking forward to creating more history for Singapore women’s football.”
Lion City Sailors’ squad for 2025/26 AFC Women’s Champions League (AWCL) Group Stage
Goalkeepers
Izairida Shakira, Hazel Lim, Alysha Nasrina
Defenders
Wang Jiaxin*, Hikaru Shibusawa*, Umairah Hamdan, Siti Nurerwadah Erwan, Syazwani Ruzi, Khairunnisa Anwar, Irsalina Irwan
Midfielders
Zhang Qiaoling*, Rivka Ramji*, Qarissa Putri, Ho Hui Xin, Nurhidayu Naszri, Dhaniyah Qasimah, Wan Nashirah Mohammed, Amelia Ng, Nur Ain Salleh
Forwards
Eri Kitagawa*, Ami Takeuchi*, Raeka Ee, Farah Nurzahirah, Dorcas Chu, Nicole Lim
The Lion City Sailors battled right till the end, but ultimately fell 2-1 to Bangkok United in a crucial 2025/26 Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) Two Group G clash at the Bishan Stadium on Thursday (6 November).
Goals from Muhsen Al-Ghassani and Luka Adžić put the Thai League 1 side in control, and although Lennart Thy pulled one back late on, Bangkok United held firm to take all three points home.
The result marked the Sailors’ fourth defeat to Bangkok on the ACL Stage, with the Singapore Premier League (SPL) champions losing by a one-goal margin on each occasion.
“I said before the match that one goal will be the difference. Unfortunately, we were on the wrong side tonight,” said Sailors Head Coach Aleksandar Ranković. “But honestly, if you look at the whole game, I don’t think we deserved to lose.
“I can’t fault my players; they gave everything. Sometimes, you just have one of those nights where luck isn’t on your side.”
Following Hariss Harun’s dismissal in the reverse fixture in Thailand a fortnight ago — a match that Bangkok United won 1-0 — the Sailors went into this game without their suspended skipper, and also missed Safuwan Baharudin and Maxime Lestienne (both unfit), while Rui Pires marked his 50th appearance for the club in all competitions.
Roared on by the buoyant home crowd, the Sailors made a bright start under the Bishan floodlights, with Anderson Lopes’ header from a corner scrambled clear early on, before Bart Ramselaar tested goalkeeper Patiwat Khammai with a first-time shot on the turn in the 24th minute.
Just five minutes later, the hosts had strong appeals for a penalty waved away after Diogo Costa appeared to be brought down by Teerasil Dangda in the area.
Bangkok United gradually grew into the game, and after Jakkapan Praisuwan’s free-kick was deflected over in the 36th minute, they took the lead in first-half stoppage time.
Weerathep Pomphan’s incisive ball over the top caught out the Sailors’ backline, allowing Al-Ghassani to go through on goal before slotting past Ivan Sušak.
“I felt like we were in control for most of the first half. We knew how they liked to attack and how they’d try to hurt us,” said centre-back Bailey Wright. “We just didn’t have the goal to show for our efforts, and they scored from a simple pass. It’s frustrating, but that’s football.”
The Sailors responded well to that setback after the restart, as Anderson went close with a header that drifted narrowly wide in the 49th minute, before Lennart’s firm driven effort towards the far corner was tipped away by Patiwat in the 66th.
At the other end, Toni Datković, who was celebrating his 32nd birthday, did well to deflect Ilias Alhaft’s low shot, before blocking a fierce strike from Thitiphan Puangchan.
“They’re a street-smart team,” admitted Bailey. “They know how to draw those little fouls that break the rhythm and kill the momentum, so it was frustrating for us.”
That frustration deepened in the 83rd minute when Weerathep turned provider again, threading a pass through for Adžić to finish clinically and double the visitors’ advantage.
The Sailors pushed hard to find a way back, and their persistence was rewarded — albeit too late — when Anderson juggled the ball inside the box before it fell kindly for Lennart to sweep home in the 91st minute.
It eventually ended 2-1 in favour of the Thai side, who strengthened their grip on second spot in Group G. The result leaves the Sailors five points adrift with just two matches to play.
“We’re disappointed, and maybe on another night, we could’ve taken something from this game,” said Bailey. “These are the strongest teams in Asia, and this is where we want to test ourselves. We just have to learn and grow stronger from this.”
Despite the setback, Bailey made sure to acknowledge the 2,049 fans who filled Bishan with their unwavering support.
“When we scored, you could really feel everyone behind us, pushing us on. That’s what football’s about,” he shared. “A lot of people from all over the world tune in to watch us, and we just want to entertain them. Sorry we didn’t get the result tonight, but we gave it absolutely everything, and the support really drives us.”
In the group’s later fixture, Malaysia’s Selangor FC let a two-goal lead slip in a 3-2 home defeat to Indonesia’s Persib Bandung, with Adam Alis scoring twice late on.
That result makes qualification even tougher for the Sailors, who now must win both remaining matches, starting with a home clash against Persib on 26 November. They must also hope that other results go their way, in order to stand a chance of qualifying for the last 16.
“Now it’s a very different situation because we don’t have everything in our hands anymore,” acknowledged Ranko. “But we were in a similar spot last season and still bounced back.
“We’ll fight till the end, and if we keep playing with this kind of energy, I believe we can still turn things around.”
Having suffered a narrow defeat to Bangkok United in their recent Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) Two Group G match, the Lion City Sailors will be determined to produce a different outcome when they host the Thai side in the reverse fixture at the Bishan Stadium on Thursday (6 November) evening.
Meeting familiar opposition
With four points from their opening three Group G matches, the Sailors know they can ill afford to drop any more points if they are to keep their qualification hopes in their own hands.
Beating Bangkok United will be easier said than done, however, as the Thai side got the better of the reigning Singapore Premier League (SPL) champions in their last three meetings. Their most recent encounter saw Bangkok United claim a 1-0 win over a 10-man Sailors side, courtesy of a Muhsen Al-Ghassani penalty at the True BG Stadium.
And on Thursday, the Bangkok Angels will be looking to extend their strong run of results against the Sailors and take a big step towards securing their place in the Round of 16.
“The Sailors are tough opponents to play against as they have many quality players. Our focus is not on past results, but on our own team and players,” said Bangkok United Head Coach Totchtawan Sripan.
Bangkok United did show some frailties in recent weeks, needing two stoppage-time goals to scrape past bottom-placed Lamphun Warriors 4-3 in Thai League 1 on 26 October, before suffering a shock 2-1 defeat to Uthai Thani – who currently sit 14th in the 16-team standings – in their most recent league outing.
With his side playing three games in just the space of a week, squad management will be key for the 53-year-old as he aims to navigate a tricky congested schedule.
“Since we are playing a lot of games in a short period of time, we will not make many tactical changes,” said Totchtawan. “Instead, we will rely on the players who are in the best possible condition to help us get the victory we need to reach the knockout stages.”
While former Sailor Richairo Živković is likely to miss the game through injury, Bangkok United still have plenty of quality in attack, including the evergreen Teerasil Dangda — Thai League 1’s all-time local top scorer, who has also earned over a century of caps for the Thailand national team.
This fixture will also see former BG Tampines Rovers stalwarts Kyoga Nakamura and Seia Kunori return to Singapore, with the duo boasting a combined total of nearly 200 SPL appearances under their belt.
Also returning to familiar territory is Montenegrin midfielder Nebojša Kosović, who scored a brace for his country in a 3-2 defeat to a Singapore Under-15 side at the Jalan Besar Stadium during the 2010 Youth Olympic Games.
“I have very nice memories playing in Singapore, and I’m very happy to be back here. It will be a very tough game, especially in the middle of the pitch,” said Kosović.
“We are very clear on the instructions from the manager and coaching staff. Our schedule has been tough, but we are all mentally focused. Now, we just need to be prepared for what will come tomorrow.”
Ready for a response
Though Bangkok United will be tricky opposition for the Sailors, they can take heart from their strong record against Thai opposition in continental competition.
Indeed, the Sailors’ defeat to Bangkok United marked their first loss in their last six meetings with Thai sides, a run which includes memorable home wins against the likes of Port FC and Muangthong United in the ACL Two.
The Sailors will head into the game in high spirits as well, having responded to their defeat in Bangkok with a 3-0 win in the SPL over Albirex Niigata (S). Their previous continental match at Bishan Stadium also saw them put up a dominant display to overpower Selangor FC 4-2 on 1 October.
With the Sailors aiming to secure a spot in the knockout stages for a second year running, Sailors Head Coach Aleksandar Ranković is confident that his side has the character to deliver a positive result against Bangkok.
“We need to bring the right mentality and determination into every game, and luckily for me, I do not have to remind my players of this,” said Ranko. “Everyone knows the importance of the match tomorrow. They will be a tough opponent, but we will also pose a challenge for them.”
While the Sailors’ task will be made tougher with the absence of experienced figures Hariss Harun and Safuwan Baharudin, the Serbian remains assured that his players have what it takes to rise to the occasion.
“We are going to miss them and the experience they bring, but I know the rest of my players will step up tomorrow like how they’ve been doing for the past few seasons,” he explained.
Ranko’s sentiments were echoed by German forward Lennart Thy, who has already made his mark in the competition this season by scoring a crucial late equaliser in a 1-1 draw with Persib Bandung in their opening group game.
“We demand a lot from ourselves in every game. The team showed what we are capable of in the last game against Selangor, and we all know what we need to do tomorrow to get all three points,” explained the 33-year-old.
With the Sailors aiming to produce another memorable performance at home, Lenny has called on the fans to turn up in numbers at the Bishan Stadium.
“I hope that there are many fans at the stadium. It’s always good to have them behind us as they are always very supportive, and that gives us an extra boost on the field. We’re going to give everything to deliver a good result tomorrow.”
Eight Lion City Sailors players have been called up to Gavin Lee’s 26-strong Singapore National Team squad that will face Thailand and Hong Kong in the upcoming November international window.
Lions captain Hariss Harun, along with Safuwan Baharudin, Lionel Tan, Hami Syahin, Song Uiyoung, Shawal Anuar, and custodian Izwan Mahbud, kept their spots from the previous October window in which they drew 1-1 at home and won 2-1 away against India in a crucial double-header.
Meanwhile, there is also a recall for Sailors full-back Akram Azman after strong performances for the club in the past month.
The 24-year-old made two sturdy cameos off the bench in a 4-2 AFC Champions League Two win over Selangor and a 5-1 Singapore Premier League (SPL) win over Young Lions, before putting in an outstanding performance in a 3-0 SPL victory over Albirex Niigata (S) in which he notched up a goal and an assist.
The Lions will take on Thailand in an international ‘A’ friendly at the Thammasat Stadium next Thursday, 13 November, before facing Hong Kong in a crucial Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Asian Cup™ Saudi Arabia 2027 qualifier five days later (18 November) away at the Kai Tak Sports Park.
A win will see Singapore qualify for the Asian Cup on merit for the first time in history.
When the full-time whistle blew at Bishan Stadium last Monday night (27 October), Ivan Sušak dropped to his knees, pointing both fingers skyward in a moment of pure emotion.
After all, the Croatian goalkeeper had just played a starring role in helping the Lion City Sailors shut out an in-form Albirex Niigata (S) side in a commanding 3-0 victory, as he made a number of key saves to secure his first clean sheet for the club. In doing so, the reigning Singapore Premier League (SPL) champions became the first team this season to prevent Albirex from scoring in a league match.
“I’m very happy with the win and my first clean sheet,” said the 28-year-old. “However, that wouldn’t have been possible without the hard work of the entire team. This win is a big mental boost for us, and it showed that we can bounce back from the loss to Bangkok United.”
Finding his feet in a new team and country
Having only joined the Sailors in July, the 2.03m-tall shot-stopper has begun to forge a good understanding with his defensive teammates. Having already faced tough continental opponents — such as Bangkok, Selangor FC, and Persib Bandung — Ivan believes the backline will only grow stronger as the season progresses.
“I can only speak positively about guys like Bailey (Wright), Hariss (Harun) and Lionel (Tan), both on and off the pitch,” he said. “The relationship we share is important. We depend on each other, and we’re always talking about the little things we can do to keep improving as a team.”
The move to Singapore from Croatian top-flight side Slaven Belupo was a major step in Ivan’s career, and while the transition was initially challenging, the camaraderie within the Sailors’ dressing room has helped him settle seamlessly.
“Singapore is an amazing city. I’d heard a lot about it from my brother, who was here 10 years ago. It’s strange to be here myself, but I’m happy,” he said with a smile.
“I knew Toni (Datković) before I came, and he’s helped me a lot, but all the players and staff have been very kind and supportive. Their help means a lot since I’m far from home, and now that my family is here too, everything is going well.”
With Singapore international Izwan Mahbud also in the squad, the Sailors boast two reliable goalkeepers competing for the number one spot — a dynamic that Ivan believes will only push both to greater heights.
“Izwan is a good goalkeeper and an even better person. We’re professionals and we fight for our spot, but that’s normal in football,” said Ivan. “We have a good relationship and push each other hard in training. That helps us both improve.”
Eyes on the continental prize
With close to 100 appearances in the Croatian top flight, Ivan’s experience and leadership will be vital as the Sailors continue their quest for a Round of 16 berth in the Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) Two.
He has already made his mark in the competition, most memorably with a stunning fingertip save in stoppage time to preserve a 1-1 away draw against Indonesia Super League side Persib on Matchday One.
“A goalkeeper can influence the outcome of a game, and I was happy to help the team,” he said. “It was just one save, but it was our collective effort that earned us that point.”
That moment was one of 15 saves Ivan has made in the competition so far — the second-highest tally in the AFC’s player rankings, just behind BG Tampines Rovers’ Syazwan Buhari and has drawn some praise from opposition fans online, though Ivan remains focused on the task at hand.
(Screengrab from the official AFC website)
“I didn’t play much attention to comments, be it good or bad ones. I’m here to help the team because that’s my job and I’m very focused on what I need to do as a goalkeeper.”
A chance to make amends
The Sailors’ qualification hopes took a hit after a narrow 1-0 defeat away to Bangkok United, which left them third in Group G. Despite the setback, Ivan believes the team can still take heart from their battling performance against the Thai outfit.
“We deserved more from that game. It’s hard to play with 10 men, but we still ran a lot and created good chances,” he reflected. “Sometimes you lose even when you play well, and that’s football. But I believe we can still qualify.”
Two weeks on, the Sailors will have the chance to exact revenge when they face Bangkok again this Thursday (6 November) at Bishan Stadium. It is a fixture that Ivan sees as a golden opportunity to get their campaign back on track.
“They’re a strong team, but I believe in our quality and our strong mindset. Our goal is to qualify, so we must stay focused and give everything to get all three points,” he declared.
“It’s important we defend well because we have the players up front who can score. Many of us have experience in big games, and we’re determined to get the job done.”
Securing his first clean sheet for the Sailors has only fuelled Ivan’s hunger to reach even greater heights, though he remains firmly focused on the team’s success.
“Every goalkeeper wants clean sheets, but what matters most is that the team gets the result,” he said. “For me, it’s about making the saves that help us win games.
“I know that playing with this team and staff will help me grow and improve every day. I’m happy here, and I want to stay at this remarkable club.”
And as the Sailors prepare for another crucial continental clash, Ivan has a simple message for the fans.
“We’re very grateful to the fans for being our 12th man. We hope they’ll come in big numbers on Thursday to push us towards our goal of taking all three points.”
The Lion City Sailors sent a strong message in the Singapore Premier League (SPL) title race with a commanding 3-0 win over Albirex Niigata (S) at Bishan Stadium on Monday (27 October).
It was the perfect response to last week’s Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) Two defeat to Bangkok United, as goals from Lennart Thy, Bart Ramselaar and Akram Azman sealed a statement victory for the Sailors. They are now five points clear at the top of the SPL, having won their first five league games of the season for the first time in their history.
After the game, Sailors Head Coach Aleksandar Ranković praised his side’s composure and control against the six-time SPL champions, who suffered their first defeat of the season.
“We were up against a totally different Albirex side from last season, but we controlled the match right from the first minute,” said Ranko. “We could have scored one or two more, but I’m very pleased with the clean sheet. Apart from the last few minutes, we didn’t allow them many chances.”
Indeed, Ranko’s charges started brightly and immediately caused problems for the Albirex defence. In the sixth minute, Shawal Anuar forced a sharp save from former Sailors custodian Hassan Sunny after meeting a teasing cross from Diogo Costa, before Tsiy Ndenge’s delivery found Lennart, who headed narrowly over.
The Sailors’ relentless pressure paid off in the 19th minute when Akram’s pinpoint cross found Lennart, who sent a looping header beyond Hassan for his fifth league goal of the season.
It was also the fourth SPL game in a row in which the German forward had scored, as he continued to prove himself a reliable attacking presence in Anderson Lopes’ absence.
“It feels good to play, to win, and to score,” said Lennart. “My mentality is that it doesn’t matter how many minutes I get, I just want to make the best of them and show what I can do on the pitch.”
Albirex offered a brief response through Shingo Nakano, whose attempted lob was tipped away by Ivan Sušak. But the Sailors continued to dominate, with Lennart coming close again in the 42nd minute when his effort flashed just wide of the post, before Akram made a crucial block in first-half stoppage time after a goalmouth scramble to preserve the home side’s lead.
The Sailors continued to push on after the break, with Lennart testing Hassan again in the 55th minute, while Tsiy struck the bar for a second successive match two minutes later with a thunderous effort from range.
It was then time for Akram — making his first league start of the season — to shine again, as his long throw in the 62nd minute was flicked on by Bailey Wright for Bart to guide home a composed sidefoot volley.
Ten minutes later, Akram capped a memorable night with a stunning goal of his own, rifling home a brilliant first-time effort after Diogo’s shot was palmed into his path to make it 3-0.
“We stuck to the game plan and the game went well for us. I’m happy to have contributed a goal and an assist, and it couldn’t really get much better,” said Akram, who was a standout performer at both ends of the pitch. “Every match counts, and this win is important as it stretches our lead at the top.”
Substitute Zulqarnaen Suzliman nearly marked his return with a goal in the 88th minute, while Croatian custodian Ivan pulled off several fine saves late on to preserve his first clean sheet for the club.
It was a dominant display that showcased the Sailors’ depth and determination, as they recorded their fifth straight league win with arguably their most complete performance of the season.
“I felt good out there, especially after a tough away trip to Bangkok,” said Bart, who was named Man-of-the-Match. “I’m proud of my performance and even prouder of how the team played. When the team performs well, individuals shine, and Akram definitely deserved Man of the Match too.”
With the SPL taking a hiatus till next January, attention now turns back to continental action. The Sailors will host Bangkok United on 6 November and Persib Bandung on 26 November in two pivotal ACL Two fixtures at Bishan Stadium.
“We’ll take things one game at a time. Our objectives are clear, and our focus is always on the next challenge,” said Akram. “The next home match against Bangkok will be a big one, and we’ll bring everything we’ve got to get the win.”
Coming up against a star-studded Bangkok United midfield in their last outing was always going to be an uphill task for the Lion City Sailors.
But one player that rose to the challenge was midfield lynchpin Song Uiyoung, who battled tirelessly and snapped into duels with his trademark intensity.
While the result did not go the Sailors’ way, the fighting spirit they showed in Pathum Thani in the Asian Football Confederation Champions League Two (ACL Two) fixture gave cause for optimism ahead of a run of several crucial fixtures.
“Everyone prepared well for the game, and we were the better team both individually and collectively in the first half,” said Song. “But even when you dominate the game, the result still may not go your way. That’s football.”
The Sailors’ task was made even harder following captain Hariss Harun’s sending off just after the hour mark. But despite being a man down, the team never stopped pushing forward in search of an equaliser.
“One of the positives we can take from the game is the quality and determination we showed as a team. That will give us confidence moving forward,” Song said.
“But at the end of the day, getting the three points is still the most important. And as long as we can finish the chances we create, I am sure we can achieve that in the next game.”
Their next assignment comes in the Singapore Premier League (SPL) against third-place Albirex Niigata (S) on Monday (27 October), just three days after returning from Bangkok.
“To prepare for Albirex, we first need to recover from this defeat both physically and mentally,” noted Song. “They are a different team from last year. Their Japanese brand of football reminds me of the Albirex of old.”
The White Swans’ revamped squad boasts potent attacking options like the league’s joint top-scorer Shingo Nakano, while new summer additions Katsuyuki Ishibashi and Takumi Yokohata have hit the ground running.
Albirex are also one of three teams, along with the Sailors and BG Tampines, yet to lose a game this term.
Recent history favours the Sailors, who have beaten the White Swans in four of their last five meetings. This includes 7-1 and 6-0 home victories in the 2024/25 season, with Song netting in both games.
However, the Singapore international is taking nothing for granted. After all, six-time league champions Albirex are the last side to beat the Sailors by two goals or more in the SPL, recording a 3-1 win back in August 2024.
“They have a strong team this season, but this is exactly the type of game we enjoy playing and we’re looking forward to a good match. We are going to prepare in the best state of mind and aim to get all three points on Monday,” said Song.
The 31-year-old has started the season in good form, registering one goal and two assists in his three league appearances. But the midfielder remains grounded and focused on the challenge ahead.
“There is still a long way to go in the season. Rather than worrying about the future, our focus is on taking things game by game,” he said.
“What matters most is ensuring that we put maximum effort into each match and with that, the results will follow.”
A 10-man Lion City Sailors side were edged 1-0 by Bangkok United in a closely-contested 2025/26 Asian Football Confederation Champions League Two (ACL Two) Group G encounter at the True BG Stadium on Thursday (23 October) night.
The Sailors were left to rue several missed chances, as Muhsen Al-Ghassani’s second-half penalty following Hariss Harun’s foul on Ilias Alhaft – which earned him a straight red card – consigned them to their first defeat of the campaign.
The result, coupled with Persib Bandung’s 2-0 victory over Selangor FC, saw Bangkok leapfrog the Sailors into second place behind the Indonesian champions, at the halfway mark of the group stage.
Speaking at the post-match conference, Sailors Head Coach Aleksandar Ranković acknowledged that Hariss’ sending off changed the game, but also credited his players for the fighting spirit they showed right up until the final whistle.
“We played well today, especially in the first half, when we should have converted one of our chances,” said Ranko. “Bangkok started the second half stronger, although they did not really threaten that much in open play until the red card. We tried to chase the game and force something, but it wasn’t enough.”
The home side got off to a fast start, with Al-Ghassani coming close early on with a header that sailed over Ivan Sušak’s goal. They were then awarded a penalty just 12 minutes in, when Safuwan Baharudin was adjudged to have handled the ball in the box. Up stepped Richairo Živković, but the former Sailor saw his attempted panenka come back off the crossbar.
That seemed to jolt the Sailors into life, with Lennart Thy firing just wide after 25 minutes and Tsiy Ndenge hitting the crossbar with a free kick soon after.
They kept the pressure up on the Bangkok goal as the first half drew to a close, forcing the home side into two last-ditch interventions. Bailey Wright’s 42nd-minute goalbound header was blocked by Nitipong Selanon, before Lennart’s header from the ensuing corner was cleared off the line by Everton Gonçalves.
They carried that intensity into the second half, as Bart Ramselaar curled a shot narrowly past Patiwat Khammai’s post within one minute of the restart.
However, the momentum soon swung massively in the home side’s favour.
Just a minute after Ivan was forced to smother an effort by substitute Teerasil Dangda’s effort, Hariss’ last-ditch challenge on Alhaft saw the Sailors captain receive his marching orders. Al-Ghassani stepped up this time, and made no mistake from the spot as he fired Bangkok into the lead.
The hosts came close to doubling their lead with Al-Ghassani rattling the post in the 78th minute and substitute Guntapon Keereeleang firing just wide in stoppage time, but one goal proved enough for them to claim all three points on the night.
Looking back on the game, Bailey reflected on the missed opportunities that proved costly for the Sailors.
“Football is about moments, and those moments went their way today,” said the Australian. “We put ourselves under unnecessary pressure in the second half and made a few mistakes, which gave them something to hold on to. The team dug deep, but we were not clinical enough tonight.”
Despite the defeat, Ranko praised his side for giving their all in pursuit of an equaliser that ultimately eluded them.
“My team has always shown a lot of character, and that is a positive we can take from the game,” he said. “The result is disappointing as I felt that we deserved a point, but that’s just how football is.”
With back-to-back ACL Two home games – including the reverse fixture against Bangkok a fortnight later on 6 November – still to come, the Serb is keen for his side to make amends.
“This is only our first loss of the campaign, and we are still in the game. We have two games at home next, and we will do our best to get maximum points there,” said Ranko, who also thanked the travelling Sailors contingent for their support.
“We always have a good following wherever we go, so a huge shoutout to the fans who made the trip to Thailand today. I hope they continue to turn up in the following games.”
There is little time for the Sailors to recover from this result, as their focus now shifts to a crucial top-of-the-table clash in the Singapore Premier League (SPL) against Albirex Niigata at the Bishan Stadium on Monday (27 October).
