Category: News
The Lion City Sailors have been awarded a 3-0 victory in their Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Champions League (ACL) Two Quarter-Final first-leg match against Sanfrecce Hiroshima, following a ruling by the AFC Disciplinary and Ethics Committee.
The original result of the match at the Edion Peace Wing Hiroshima on 5 March was overturned after Sanfrecce were deemed to have fielded an ineligible player.
The Sailors will now head into the return leg at Jalan Besar Stadium next Wednesday (12 March) with an advantage, as they aim to become the first Singaporean club to reach the ACL Two semi-finals.
Less than 72 hours after returning to Singapore from their 6-1 defeat to Sanfrecce Hiroshima in the first leg of their Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) Two Quarter-Final, the Lion City Sailors will be back in Singapore Premier League (SPL) action as they take on Hougang United at the Jalan Besar Stadium on Sunday (9 March) night.
As such, there will be little time for the Sailors to dwell on their loss in Hiroshima as they look to bounce back immediately and keep their promising season on track.
Indeed, Sailors skipper Hariss Harun even believes the defeat to three-time J1 League champions Sanfrecce is not necessarily all doom and gloom — if taken the right way.
“Playing against a top Japanese side is always tough, and Sanfrecce showed their quality by making things very difficult for us,” said Hariss. “Despite the scoreline, we can still take heart from our first-half performance, where we managed to pull a goal back — that’s a positive we can take away.
“It’s important for us to experience these games against high-level opposition, as they show us the standard required to compete at the top. Obviously, there’s a lot for us to improve on, but we have shown throughout our campaign that we can hold our own against the best. That is the level we aspire to reach.”
Less than eight hours separated the final whistle at the Edion Peace Wing Hiroshima and the Sailors’ flight back to Singapore — yet such short turnarounds have been a hallmark of their packed season so far.
So, while the Sailors may not have had much time to rest or prepare for the game against the Cheetahs, Hariss remains confident that his side can still get the result they need this weekend.
“It’s definitely tiring, especially with all the travelling, but we have to pick ourselves up — both physically and mentally — and go again,” said Hariss. “Everyone in the team knows what we want to achieve, so we’re going to give our all and push each other to secure the three points on Sunday.”
Under interim coach Robert Eziakor, Hougang have shown they are no slouches and are more than capable of springing a surprise. Despite losing two of their last three games, Hariss remains wary of their threat — having seen them claim victories over BG Tampines Rovers and Albirex Niigata (S) since the start of the year.
“Hougang have quality foreign players and experienced heads who have played at the international level,” Hariss explained. “They are a side that must be taken seriously, but as long as we focus on ourselves and the task ahead, I’m confident we can get the victory we need.”
With a nine-point lead at the top of the table and a game in hand, it might be easy for complacency to creep into the Sailors’ minds. But, having seen league titles slip from their grasp in recent years, Hariss is determined to keep the team focused until the finish line.
“We’ve been in strong positions in recent seasons but still fell short,” explained Hariss. “Now, we have the experience to ensure that it doesn’t happen again this time, which is why we’re not dwelling on our current position. There are still crucial games ahead, and we won’t stop fighting until we achieve our targets for the year.”
A key driving force behind the Sailors’ title push has been their loyal supporters, who have once again shown unwavering dedication to the team. In fact, a small group of them even braved the cold in Hiroshima to stand by the Sailors for the full 90 minutes.
“From the electric nights at Jalan Besar to tough battles like the one we just had in Hiroshima, one thing has never changed — our fans have been tremendous,” said Hariss. “Their presence gives us that extra motivation to keep pushing, so I just want to express my appreciation for their unwavering support. I know they’ll continue standing by us until the end of the season.”
She may have played a pivotal role in the Lion City Sailors Women’s Team’s successful 2024 Women’s Premier League (WPL) campaign, but Priscille Le Helloco’s humility shines through when she shares her aspirations for the upcoming season.
“Scoring a goal or two would be nice,” she said, with a modest smile.
For context, Priscille took only one game — her debut match for the Sailors — to achieve that milestone last season.
As Priscille looks ahead to her first full season with the club, she and her teammates will face a stern test right from the get-go, with the Sailors kicking off their WPL 2025 campaign in a blockbuster opener against title rivals Albirex Niigata (S) this Saturday (8 March) at Choa Chu Kang Stadium.
Yet, she embraces the pressure as an opportunity to showcase what the team is truly capable of.
“Albirex are a tough team, and it will be a challenge, but I have full confidence in our ability to perform — especially with how hard Coach Daniel Ong has been pushing us over the past few months. This game is a great opportunity to showcase our growth and prove the quality we’ve been building towards,” she shared.
Priscille made her club debut last August, quickly showcasing her sharp eye for goal and natural ability to connect with her teammates on the pitch.
Indeed, her partnership with fellow forward Raeka Ee is shaping up to be one of the most exciting strike duos of the upcoming season — a connection that ignited on the very night of Priscille’s debut. After all, it was Raeka who set up both of her goals in that match against Tanjong Pagar.
“Raeka and I have definitely grown closer since I first joined the Sailors, and that bond has made a huge difference both on and off the field. The stronger our connection off the pitch, the better our chemistry during games. It’s made playing together even more enjoyable and effective,” the French teenager said.
Looking back, Priscille pinpoints a defining moment in their friendship.
“I think the exact moment Raeka and I became close was when we celebrated my debut goal,” she recalled. “It was funny because just a few hours earlier, we were filming for the Champions In Blue music video, where we had to fake a goal celebration. So we went from pretending in front of the cameras to actually celebrating together on the pitch. And, of course, we bonded over our love for food.”
The Sailors began their pre-season preparations as early as late December last year, with the two forwards dedicating themselves to fine-tuning their already seamless chemistry.
“As attackers, we know expectations are high, and we’re always looking for ways to evolve and improve. Everything we do is geared towards creating more goal-scoring opportunities and ensuring we keep growing throughout the season,” shared Priscille.
“We’ve been working hard in training to sharpen our link-up play and deepen our understanding of each other’s movements. Whether through drills, tactical discussions, or simply spending time together off the pitch, we’re constantly learning how to complement each other’s strengths to be as dangerous as possible on the field.”
Away from the attacking front, the Sailors’ defence is also undergoing a transformation ahead of the new season. Qarissa Putri, a standout performer in the backline last year, has solidified her role as the backbone of the team’s defensive stronghold — just in time for their crucial clash against Albirex this Saturday.
To those around her, Qarissa’s rise has been fuelled by unwavering self-belief — a quality that has propelled her to the top of her game.
“Qarissa has really stepped up, and it’s been incredible to see her confidence grow. She’s becoming a key leader in the backline, showing composure under pressure and making smart decisions on the ball,” Priscille shared proudly of her teammate.
“She’s worked incredibly hard, and her growth is evident — not just in her defensive presence but also in her ability to organise and lead from the back.”
With several players stepping into bigger roles this season, and another couple of Sailors Girls Academy talents promoted to the senior team, Priscille credits the squad’s senior players and Coach Daniel for shaping them into the players they are today.
Beyond tactical guidance on the pitch, the young hopefuls receive mentorship off it — an essential element in fostering their love for the game.
“Their guidance, tactical insights, and genuine care for each of us not only help us improve as players but also shape us as individuals,” Priscille explained. “As younger players, we push each other to grow by constantly challenging and motivating one another. That shared drive and support system make a huge difference in our progress.
“I hope we continue to grow closer, strengthen our bonds, and become even more united in working towards our goals. If we keep pushing each other and stay committed, I truly believe we can achieve a lot this season.”
Having already overcome Zhejiang Professional and Muangthong United in the Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) Two this season, the Lion City Sailors were quietly optimistic about claiming another giant scalp when they faced Sanfrecce Hiroshima in the first-leg of their Quarter-Final tie on Wednesday (5 March) night.
However, despite their best efforts, the Sailors ultimately fell short, suffering a 6-1 defeat to a relentless Sanfrecce side in front of a 6,812-strong home crowd at the Edion Peace Wing Hiroshima.
While the Sailors held their own in the first half – which ended 2-1 in favour of the hosts – a four-goal flurry from the three-time J1 League champions in the second half has left their semi-final hopes hanging by a thread.
While acknowledging the gulf between the two sides in his post-match press conference, Sailors head coach Aleksandar Ranković also rued his side’s lapses in concentration at crucial moments in the game.
“We just played against one of the best sides in Asia, but the result was a little harsh, as almost every shot they took went in,” said Ranko. “We did an okay job controlling the game in the first half, but were really unlucky to concede both in the closing minute of the first half and the first minute of the second half.”
Sanfrecce wasted no time asserting their authority, pinning the Sailors deep in their half with relentless waves of attacks. Their early dominance paid off in the 12th minute when midfielder Satoshi Tanaka executed a delightful pirouette on the edge of the box before rifling an unstoppable shot into the top corner.
Buoyed by the opener, Sanfrecce intensified their pressure and could have doubled their lead — if not for a series of heroic Sailors blocks. First, Sailors custodian Izwan Mahbud reacted sharply to smother a Tanaka effort in the 13th minute, before captain Hariss Harun courageously put his body on the line to deny Mutsuki Kato’s effort from the rebound.
Despite coming under immense pressure, the Sailors remained composed, patiently waiting for the perfect moment to strike on the counter. That opportunity arrived in the 36th minute when Maxime Lestienne weaved his way up the field before threading a pass to Bart Ramselaar, who in turn set up the in-form Shawal Anuar.
The 33-year-old made no mistake in front of goal, as he coolly slotted the ball into the bottom corner for his eighth goal in nine ACL Two matches.
In doing so, Shawal became the first Singaporean to score in the quarter-finals of an AFC competition since Indra Sahdan in 2008. His goal also made him the first visiting player to breach Sanfrecce’s home defence in 2025, ending their streak of three consecutive home clean sheets.
Unfortunately, that proved to be the Sailors’ best moment of the match, as Sanfrecce swiftly responded in the 41st minute. A precise slide-rule pass from Sota Nakamura on the right flank found Ryo Germain, who made no mistake from close range to restore his side’s advantage.
The home side then added a third just two minutes into the second half. Once again, it was Germain who capitalised on a pinpoint delivery — this time from half-time substitute Shunki Higashi — as he calmly finished with a deft touch into the Sailors’ net to complete his brace.
Even with their backs against the wall, the Sailors refused to give in and remained a constant threat on the counter. And they nearly found a way back in the 51st minute when Shawal came close to connecting with a Bart cross, but the ball narrowly evaded the Singaporean forward.
But the visitors’ resistance was eventually broken in the 67th minute when Shuto Nakano showed great awareness to pick out fellow substitute Hayao Kawabe on the edge of the penalty area. Kawabe unleashed a brilliant first-time strike that nestled into the bottom corner — just seven minutes after coming on.
Any faint hopes of a Sailors comeback were extinguished in the 73rd minute when former Monaco and Marseille stalwart Valère Germain directed a header into the net on his debut, courtesy of a deflection off Hariss.
Just a minute later, Nakamura capped off a dominant night for the hosts with a powerful strike, leaving the Sailors with a mountain to climb in the second leg.
“I told my boys that they have learned more from this match than from all the previous matches we’ve played in the last two years,” reflected Ranko. “This was a different level from what we experience back home in the Singapore Premier League (SPL), and while it will take time, this is the level we strive to reach.”
“We still have a match at home, and we will give our all to fight for our supporters and win that match at the very least,” he added.
The Sailors have little time to dwell on this tough defeat, as they return to SPL action against Hougang United at the Jalan Besar Stadium this Sunday (9 March), before hosting Sanfrecce at the same venue for the return leg on Wednesday (12 March).
The Lion City Sailors’ remarkable Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Champions League (ACL) Two campaign continues on Wednesday (5 March), as they face J1 League powerhouse and pre-tournament favourites, Sanfrecce Hiroshima, in the first leg of the Quarter-Finals at the Edion Peace Wing Hiroshima.
The Sailors’ stiffest test yet
Make no mistake — this will be the Sailors’ toughest test yet in ACL Two. After all, Sanfrecce are one of Japan’s most successful clubs, boasting three J1 League titles and finishing in the top three for the past three seasons. Last year, they were part of a thrilling three-way title race, only falling short on the final day to Vissel Kobe.
Despite that heartbreak, Sanfrecce were the J1 League’s top-scoring team last season, netting 72 goals in 38 matches. Their second-place finish also means they have already secured a spot in next season’s ACL Elite.
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A good gauge of the challenge ahead comes from the Opta Power Rankings, a global team ranking system that assigns an ability score to over 13,000 men’s domestic teams. At the time of writing, Sanfrecce are ranked 132nd — the highest among the eight remaining teams in ACL Two — while the Sailors are at 1,302nd.
Sanfrecce have lived up to their billing, emerging as one of only two unbeaten teams in ACL Two, alongside Iran’s Tractor SC.
With seven wins in eight matches, they have been ruthless, notching up impressive results including a 3-0 home win against reigning Philippines champions Kaya FC–Iloilo, and comprehensive 3-0 and 4-0 victories over Vietnam’s Nam Định FC in the Round of 16.
“We are very happy to have reached the quarter-finals,” said Sanfrecce head coach Michael Skibbe at the pre-match press conference. “It is an honour to compete in this tournament, and so far, it has been a very interesting journey. From this stage onward, I believe it will be incredibly challenging for all eight remaining teams, as each of them is capable of winning the title.
“Because of this, we are truly honoured to be here. Of course, we want to put in a strong performance tomorrow and hopefully secure a good result to take into the second leg next week. But above all, we are proud and excited to play at this stage of the competition.”
Sanfrecce counting on their 12th man
Sanfrecce are among the most well-supported clubs in Japan, with attendance figures soaring since their move to the majestic 28,520-seater Edion Peace Wing Hiroshima at the start of 2024. They sold out 15 of 19 matches in their debut season there, as well as their first two domestic home games of the 2025 season.
While midweek ACL Two fixtures naturally draw smaller crowds, they have still averaged 9,545 spectators across their four continental home matches so far.
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Skibbe’s side have hit the ground running in 2025, defeating reigning champions Vissel Kobe 2-0 to lift the Japanese Super Cup. They are also joint-top of the league – level with Kashiwa Reysol and Shonan Bellmare – after an unbeaten start featuring three wins and a draw from their opening four matches.
Their squad depth has been further bolstered by the recent signing of Valère Germain, who joins an already impressive roster that includes former Brazil U-20 midfielder Marcos Júnior and new recruit Ryo Germain — who was the third-highest scorer in last season’s J1 League with 19 goals for Júbilo Iwata.
However, Sanfrecce will be without playmaker Tolgay Arslan, as the former Udinese star faces up to six months on the sidelines due to an injury he sustained during their game against Yokohama FC on 2 March.
“It’s very unfortunate for Tolgay to suffer such a serious injury and be sidelined for four to six months,” said Skibbe, a two-time J.League Manager of the Year (2022, 2024). “But I believe Valère has the experience to step in and fill the role as best as possible.
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“He’s an excellent player with a strong international career. He spent many years playing at a high level in France, delivering consistently good performances, before moving to Australia, where he remained a key player both for his team and in the league. So we’re very happy to have him with us now for our ACL Two campaign and the league matches.”
Sailors undeterred by testing conditions
The road ahead is filled with challenges for the Sailors. This match marks the first of six games during the March Ramadan period, a time when the Muslim players in the squad will be fasting from dawn to dusk.
They will also have to contend with bitterly cold conditions, with temperatures expected to hover between 10°C and 4°C as Japan transitions from late winter to early spring.
Nonetheless, having already overcome top clubs from China and Thailand to become the only Southeast Asian club to reach the competition’s last eight, the Sailors remain undeterred, and are determined to extend their dream run.
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“Reaching this stage and competing against teams of this calibre means a lot to us,” said Sailors Head Coach Aleksandar Ranković. “We want to showcase our best against a strong opponent like Sanfreece.
“I’m very confident because this team has a great mentality. Being the first team in Singapore football history to reach this stage — and facing an opponent of this level — says a lot about the character of these players. They deserve full credit for what they’ve achieved.”
While Ranko acknowledged the challenge that lies ahead for the Sailors against a high-quality Sanfrecce side, he remains confident that his team has what it takes to put up a strong fight against another big name in the competition.
“We are playing against a top-class team in Asia,” said Ranko. “If you look at where they stand — not just in Asia, but on the global football stage — it speaks for itself. They are performing well both in their league and in the Champions League.
“But this is a chance for us to test ourselves against the best. We’ve already faced similar teams, not just this season but also last season. It’s a fantastic opportunity for my boys to step up and showcase their abilities in this game.”
The Sailors will remain without Song Uiyoung due to suspension, but the rest of the squad are fit and ready to take on one of Asia’s giants — even with many players fasting during Ramadan.
Midfielder Hami Syahin, who has started seven of the Sailors’ eight continental matches across the ACL Two and ACC Shopee Cup campaigns this season, said, “We’ve been through this before, playing during Ramadan. Our game is also after we break our fast, so I don’t think it will be a problem for us. We are professionals — we have to adapt quickly and give our best on the pitch.”
Hami also revealed that everyone in the team is embracing the occasion and eager to rise to the challenge.
“It’s an honour to play at this stage, in this competition, going up against a strong team, in a beautiful stadium, and in great weather,” said Hami. “We’re all looking forward to giving our best in tomorrow’s game.
“For Singapore football, this is history, and it’s truly a privilege to represent our country through the Sailors. We are also the only Southeast Asian club left in the competition, so we’re determined to make our mark and give it our all.”
As Shawal Anuar latched onto a through pass from skipper Hariss Harun with one of his signature darting runs, time at the Jalan Besar Stadium seemed to stand still.
The Muangthong United backline stopped chasing, the Sailors’ fans braced themselves for an offside whistle, and even his own teammates hesitated. But Shawal never gave up on what seemed like a lost cause.
With a deft touch, he coolly lobbed the onrushing goalkeeper, then took a quick glance at the linesman’s flag — still down.
His perfectly-timed run had beaten Muangthong’s high line and, more importantly, sealed the Sailors’ place in the Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) Two quarter-finals – marking the first time a Singaporean side had reached this milestone.
“When I made that run, I was fully confident I wasn’t offside,” Shawal said. “I always scan my surroundings before receiving the ball. Even before Hariss got it, I knew I was in line with the last defender. Bart was shouting for me to leave it for him, but I ignored him — I knew I was onside!”
The mercurial forward played a pivotal role in all of his side’s goals as the Sailors cruised to a 4-0 victory in the second leg to seal a commanding 7-2 aggregate win over Muangthong. Given the reputation and quality of Thai teams, even Shawal was taken aback by the emphatic nature of the triumph.
“We know it’s never easy to play against Thai sides, so I was surprised that we won by such a huge margin,” Shawal admitted. “But we fully deserved it — we worked hard together as a team, covering for each other in defence, midfield, and attack. That unity helped us get the goals we needed.”
But the Sailors now face their toughest test of the season as they travel to take on J1 League giants Sanfrecce Hiroshima — one of the most decorated clubs in Japanese football — at the Edion Peace Wing Hiroshima on Wednesday (5 March) for the first leg of their two-legged quarter-final tie.
Despite the daunting challenge of facing a top-tier side from one of Asia’s best leagues, however, Shawal remains unfazed.
“These are the big games I always look forward to playing in,” Shawal said. “As a team, we won’t shy away from the challenge — we’re motivated to show what we can do against top opposition. As long as we stay focused, work hard in training, and play our football, nothing is impossible.”
The forward previously had a taste of the intensity of Japanese football when he went on trial with then-second division side Matsumoto Yamaga in 2017, and spent a week in the club’s pre-season training camp. It was an eye-opening experience for Shawal, who witnessed firsthand the high standards Japanese players set for themselves.
“I learned a lot from my stint at Yamaga — the quality there was very different from what we have in Singapore,” Shawal recounted. “What stood out most was their fitness levels and work ethic. They could chase you around the pitch for the full 90 minutes without dropping off. That was something I made sure to apply to my own game.”
But even as Shawal gears up for this titanic quarter-final clash, he remains grounded, never forgetting his humble beginnings — rising through the ranks of Singapore football after starting his career in the amateur National Football League (NFL) with Keppel Monaco.
“When I was a youth player, I never imagined I’d one day play at such a high level, let alone in the quarter-finals of a continental competition,” he said. “Getting to where I am now is a special achievement for me, and I will keep working hard to go even further.”
Today, the Singapore international is enjoying the most prolific season of his career, having netted 22 goals in all competitions — including seven in the ACL Two, second only to the Iranian duo Sardar Azmoun and Amirhossein Hosseinzadeh.
His exploits on the continental stage have naturally caught the attention of opposition clubs, with teams now keeping a closer eye on the threat he poses. But while defenders are increasingly marking him tightly, Shawal remains focused on doing what he does best — scoring and creating goals for the Sailors.
“At this level, opposition teams analyse every detail of every player, especially attackers like me. I just have to stay patient, play smart, and focus on what I can contribute,” he said.
Far from being a burden, he sees this extra attention as an opportunity — not just for himself, but for Singaporean footballers to make their mark on the big stage.
He explained, “People will always observe every aspect of your game — your play style, work ethic, even your confidence on the pitch. Everyone has different perspectives, but as long as we give our best, we never know what opportunities might come our way.”
Shawal also expressed his gratitude to the dedicated group of Sailors fans who are set to make the 4,700km journey to Hiroshima.
“We truly appreciate all the fans supporting us — both those traveling to Japan and those cheering from home,” he said. “Their presence as the 12th man will give us that extra boost we need against such a strong side, and we’ll make sure to give everything on the pitch to fight for them and the result.”
Lionel Tan was the hero for the Lion City Sailors as his lone goal secured a crucial 1-0 victory over nearest title challengers BG Tampines Rovers at Bishan Stadium on Wednesday (26 Feb) night.
That was the Sailors’ seventh successive Singapore Premier League (SPL) victory as they extended their lead at the top to nine points — with a game in hand — and took a significant step towards reclaiming the SPL title.
Under the pouring rain at Bishan, the match began cautiously, with both sides cancelling each other out. The game then came into life towards the end of the first half, with BG Tampines spurning two glorious opportunities to score.
Joel Chew’s close-range effort in the 37th minute looked destined for goal but was denied by a brilliant last-ditch block by Diogo Costa, before Itsuki Enomoto’s header off Kyoga Nakamura’s deep cross forced a sharp reaction save from Sailors custodian Izwan Mahbud.
A potential concern arose for the Sailors in the 40th minute when centre-back Toni Datković was substituted due to injury, with Lionel taking his place.
Then, in first-half stoppage time, the Sailors nearly broke the deadlock when Maxime Lestienne’s goal-bound effort was cleared off the line by Stags defender Dylan Fox.
At the post-match press conference, Head Coach Aleksandar Ranković addressed why his side struggled to create enough chances in the opening 45 minutes.
“This was definitely the most competitive game since the break. Even from the start of the league, BG Tampines have been very strong opponents,” Ranko reflected.
“There weren’t many chances because both teams defended and attacked well. I also think we were a bit fatigued. In the first half, we struggled to apply pressure, especially on their key players.”
The second half started much like the first, with both teams cautiously probing each other and creating few clear-cut chances. However, Rui Pires’ deflected effort early on in the second half signalled the Sailors’ intent to push for victory.
Both the Sailors and BG Tampines made substitutions in a bid to change the game, with the hosts introducing Christopher van Huizen and the visitors bringing on Faris Ramli. However, it was the Sailors who finally found the breakthrough in the 82nd minute.
After Maxime’s cross was half-cleared by Fox, Lionel seized the opportunity to take the ball down with his left foot before finishing with aplomb on his favoured right to give his side the crucial lead.
It was the centre-back’s first goal since July 2023, when he also scored at Bishan Stadium against Balestier Khalsa in the SPL.
Beyond sealing the victory, Lionel’s goal was also a response to his online critics. After the match, the defender reflected on how the criticism had only made him stronger and fuelled his determination to improve.
“I think I’ve matured as a player in how I handle pressure these days. For me, I just stay focused on my goals and find happiness in appreciating the small things — both in football and in life,” Lionel shared when asked about the online criticism.
“It’s a constant thing, and while it no longer affects me, it does impact my family and friends. But at the end of the day, this is football, and in other countries, it’s even worse.”
Soon after Lionel’s decisive goal, Tampines substitute Arya Igami saw his effort saved by Izwan, while at the other end, Maxime’s low shot was kept out by BG Tampines custodian Syazwan Buhari in a frantic finish to the game.
The Sailors eventually saw out the victory to claim their first SPL triumph over the Stags since August 2023, and open up a commanding lead at the league’s summit.
Another standout performer for the Sailors was defensive midfielder Rui Pires, who was duly named Man of the Match.
“I’ve had some injury issues over the past few weeks, but I’m really happy to be back and able to help the team,” said Rui, who once again embraced his role as a team player in Ranko’s side.
“Every time we secure three points, it’s a great feeling because it strengthens our position at the top of the table. As a team, we’re delighted, and we’ll keep pushing until the very end.”
With the Sailors’ Singapore Cup clash against Geylang International rescheduled to late March, their focus now shifts to a crucial away trip to Edion Peace Wing Hiroshima, where they will face J1 League powerhouse Sanfrecce Hiroshima in the Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) Two Quarter-Final first leg next Wednesday (5 March).
For now, though, Ranko has just one immediate concern before the trip to Japan.
“We have to assess Toni’s condition,” said Ranko. “Fortunately, we have a full week to prepare since we don’t have a game this weekend. Hopefully, he recovers in time, and we’ll give it our best shot against one of Asia’s top teams.”
Last year, the Lion City Sailors Women’s Team enjoyed a historic season, clinching their third consecutive Deloitte Women’s Premier League (WPL) title while putting up a great account on their debut in the AFC Women’s Champions League (AWCL).
A key pillar of the team’s success over the years has been the Sailors Girls Academy, which continues to provide a steady pipeline of talent. To date, 16 players have made the step up to the WPL, with more set to follow in 2025.
This season, two more teenage talents who were previously from the Sailors Girls Academy have earned promotion to the senior team — 14-year-old winger Amelia Ng and 17-year-old Nor Adriana Lim (pictured above), who shone for Mattar Sailors in the second-tier Women’s National League (WNL) last season, scoring 15 goals to claim both the Golden Boot and the Young Player of the Year award.
Attacker Putri Alyiah Seow (pictured below), who joined Mattar Sailors last year, also makes the step up after a breakthrough WNL season, which saw the 21-year-old finishing as the league’s joint second-highest scorer with seven goals.
Beyond academy and WNL promotions, however, the Sailors have also made three key signings from other WPL clubs to bolster their squad. Indian midfielder Anaya Sehgal, 15, joins from BG Tampines Rovers, while 24-year-old defender Mira Ruzana arrives from Still Aerion.
The most eye-catching addition, however, is none other than 2023 WPL Young Player of the Year, Dhaniyah Qasimah, who has made the switch from Albirex Niigata (S) to the Sailors.
An energetic and box-to-box midfielder, Dhaniyah was a key player for Albirex last season, playing a pivotal role in their thrilling title race with the Sailors. Now, she has chosen to cross the divide and don the Sailors’ white and blue, bringing her aggressive style of play to the champions.
“Joining the Sailors is a huge step for me, and I’m excited to test myself at an even higher level while contributing to the team’s ambitions in both the WPL and AWCL,” said 20-year-old Dhaniyah, who has already earned several caps for the Lionesses.
“Having worked with Coach Daniel (Ong) a few times in the national team, I’ve seen firsthand how he pushes players to reach their potential, and that’s something I’m eager to experience. His modern coaching style won’t just improve my skills — it’ll also shape how I perceive and adapt to challenges on the field.
“I’m really looking forward to helping the team defend the league title and competing in my first-ever AWCL campaign.”
The Sailors will kick off their 2025 WPL campaign against Albirex on 8 March, before embarking on their second consecutive AWCL campaign in August.
Reflecting on his squad for the 2025 season, Daniel declared himself satisfied, and is eagerly anticipating his second season as Sailors Women Head Coach.
“I’m delighted we’ve secured Dhaniyah — she’s a fantastic addition, and I’m confident she’ll complement our style of play with her ability to defend, hold up the ball, and find incisive forward passes,” said the 36-year-old.
“It’s also crucial that we continue promoting players from the WNL and our Academy. They’re already familiar with our philosophy and coaching approach, which helps them integrate seamlessly into our system. These players have immense potential, and I’m excited to see them step up at the WPL level.
“Our primary goal is, of course, to retain the WPL title, but we also want to elevate each player’s standards so that we can compete more effectively against overseas clubs in the AWCL. As long as the team remains committed to the cause, I’m confident we can enjoy another successful season together.”
Meanwhile, seven players have been de-registered from the 2024 roster. Nur Ain Salleh and Natasha Naszri are currently in Spain under the Unleash The Roar! (UTR!) Overseas Football Scholarship, while Japanese forward Miray Altun and Canadian midfielder Madison Telmer have left to pursue their studies abroad. Filipino-American defender Sara Hayduchok is also seeking new opportunities.
Josephine Ang is undergoing rehabilitation following surgery for an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury sustained last November, while Natasha Kaur also leaves the club.
Lion City Sailors’ 2025 Women’s Premier League (WPL) squad
Goalkeepers
Izairida Shakira, Beatrice Tan
Defenders
Umairah Hamdan, Seri Nurinsyirah, Syazwani Ruzi, Khairunnisa Anwar, Tia Foong, Tyan Foong, Mira Ruzana
Midfielders
Qarissa Putri, Ho Hui Xin, Sarah Zu’risqha, Nurhidayu Naszri, Dhaniyah Qasimah, Anaya Sehgal, Amelia Ng
Forwards
Cara Chang, Raeka Ee, Priscille Le Helloco, Liyana Rickit, Yuvika Suresh, Dorcas Chu, Nor Adriana Lim, Putri Alyiah Seow
The Lion City Sailors’ Singapore Cup Group B clash against Geylang International, originally set for Sunday, 2 March, has been rescheduled to Thursday, 27 March, 8.30pm, at the Jalan Besar Stadium.
The change allows the Sailors to optimise their preparations for their ongoing Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) Two campaign, where they will face Japan’s Sanfrecce Hiroshima in the quarter-finals.
The first leg of the ACL Two tie will take place at the Edion Peace Wing Hiroshima on Wednesday, March 5, before the teams meet again for the return leg at the Jalan Besar Stadium exactly a week later on March 12.
The Sailors sit second in Group B of the Singapore Cup after an opening 4-1 win over Tanjong Pagar United and will next face Balestier Khalsa on March 16. The holders will then take on the Eagles on March 27, before concluding the group stage three days later (March 30) against Thai League 1 side BG Pathum United.
The Sailors extend our appreciation to Geylang International and the Football Association of Singapore (FAS) for accommodating the rescheduling, as we continue striving to represent Singapore with pride on the continental stage.
Whenever the Lion City Sailors and BG Tampines Rovers face off, fireworks are almost guaranteed.
As one of the most fiercely contested rivalries in the Singapore Premier League (SPL), this fixture carries significant weight — and Wednesday’s (26 February) potentially title-defining showdown at Bishan Stadium is no exception.
With the Sailors in imperious form and holding a six-point lead at the top of the table, plus a game in hand, they have every reason to approach this clash with confidence.
However, recent history suggests it will be far from straightforward – after all, the Sailors have secured just one win in their last six league meetings against the Stags, the only team they have yet to beat this season. Their previous encounters saw a bruising 5-0 defeat and a hard-fought 2-2 draw, setting the stage for a pivotal encounter.
One player who is determined to rewrite that script, however, is Sailors midfielder Song Uiyoung. A seasoned veteran in this rivalry, Song has faced BG Tampines 27 times — more than any other opponent bar Albirex Niigata (S) and Balestier Khalsa. With his wealth of experience and deep understanding of what it takes to battle the Stags, he is fully committed to ensuring a different outcome this time around.
“Having faced BG Tampines many times, I know they are one of the best teams in the league, and I always look forward to playing against them,” said Song, who will be looking to add to his personal tally of six goals and five assists against the Stags.
“This will be one of the most important games of our league season so far. Our meetings have always been fiercely competitive and emotional, with both teams bringing intensity to the pitch every time.”
The Sailors will head into this decisive clash on the back of an emphatic 5-1 victory over Balestier in their most recent league outing. Song was a standout performer in that game, as he injected energy into the midfield and registered his third league assist of the season in a clinical Sailors display.
“I’m very satisfied with the result as it helps us maintain the momentum we’ve built so far,” said 31-year-old Song. “It adds even more positivity to the team and further strengthens our mentality. Results like these show that we approach every game with full commitment, and there’s no reason for us not to give our maximum effort, no matter who we face.”
The Sailors’ momentum has been steadily building through a series of impressive performances in a packed February. Despite playing five games in just 15 days, they have secured five consecutive wins across all competitions, scoring 20 goals in the process.
For Song, this fine form instils added confidence in the team, reinforcing the belief that, regardless of their recent record against BG Tampines, they have what it takes to get the job done.
“For us, the focus is never on our opponents or their team — it’s always on ourselves,” insisted Song. “We won’t get carried away by who we’re facing or the lead we have at the top. As long as we stay united and give our best, we can definitely get the result on Wednesday.”
“We are mature professionals; we know how to embrace big matches and handle any team we come up against. The most important thing is to maintain the positive energy within the squad by believing in and supporting one another, just as we have done so far,” he added.
Reflecting on one of the busiest months in the Sailors’ calendar — where they secured crucial SPL points and made history as the first Singaporean team to reach the quarter-finals of the Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) Two — Song was full of praise, not just for his teammates but also for the dedicated staff working tirelessly behind the scenes.
“I’m very proud of the entire Sailors team, from the players to the staff, and the mentality they showed despite such a demanding schedule,” said Song. “It wasn’t easy, but we managed both the mental and physical fatigue well, taking each game step by step. That was the key to overcoming the challenges that came our way.”
As the league season nears its climax with just ten matches remaining for the Sailors, Song emphasised the importance of the bond between the team and the Sailors faithful, highlighting how their unwavering support helps push the team over the line.
“At the Sailors, we have this special connection between the players and our fans,” said Song. “We work together, play together, and achieve results together. I truly appreciate how they show up to support us without fail — their presence drives us forward in every game.
“We know how much this game against BG Tampines means to them, and we’ll give everything to secure the three points.”
