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The Lion City Sailors Women’s Team fell to their first defeat of the 2025 Women’s Premier League (WPL) season, as they narrowly lost 1-0 to Albirex Niigata (S) at the Choa Chu Kang Stadium on Sunday (18 May).
It marked just the second defeat in the team’s history since their formation in 2022, with their only other loss coming against Geylang International in the 2024 season.
Despite the setback, the Sailors remain atop the WPL standings with 13 points from six matches, though Albirex have closed the gap to just one point with a game in hand.
“We played according to our game plan today and I’m proud of each and every member of this team,” said Sailors Head Coach Daniel Ong. “We came close to scoring in the first half but didn’t take our chances. We’ll move on from this and take each game as it comes.”
Daniel handed a start to Sailors Girls’ Academy graduate Madison Telmer, who made her return to the starting XI and was quickly involved in the thick of the action.
While Albirex started the stronger of the two sides, the Sailors soon created the game’s first big opportunity in the 12th minute. Albirex goalkeeper Erlinawaty Jaffar failed to claim a high ball, allowing Sarah Zu’risqha a free header — only for her effort to be dramatically cleared off the line by Sun Jie.
The Sailors came even closer just a minute later. Madison whipped in an inch-perfect cross from the right that found Priscille Le Helloco, but her fierce strike cannoned off the woodwork.
Those missed opportunities would prove costly for the Sailors, as in the 22nd minute, Albirex took the lead against the run of play through Ruriko Takashima, who broke free from midfield and finished coolly over the reach of Beatrice Tan.
It was Takashima’s fourth goal in two games, having netted a hat-trick in last weekend’s 7-2 win over Still Aerion.
The Sailors tried to respond immediately, and in the 32nd minute, Sarah’s low free-kick appeared to slip through the grasp of Erlinawaty, but the Albirex custodian reacted quickly to push the ball out for a corner.
The first-half ended with Albirex holding on to a slender 1-0 lead, but the Sailors came out with renewed purpose in the second half.
Umairah Hamdan tried her luck from distance in the 48th minute, but her effort flew off target, with the increasingly heavy downpour posing challenges for both teams.
“The rain actually affected our game today. The long balls weren’t going in the right direction, while the short passes couldn’t reach our players’ feet,” said Sailors captain Umairah.
“Both teams had to deal with the same conditions, but when the pitch is waterlogged and the surface isn’t dry or stable, it definitely affects your performance.”
Just past the hour mark, the Sailors continued to push for an equaliser, with Madison and Dhaniyah Qasimah both having attempts on goal, though neither seriously tested the Albirex goalkeeper.
At the other end, Khairunnisa Anwar came up with a crucial intervention in the 66th minute, producing a heroic last-ditch sliding tackle to deny Albirex a second goal and keep her side in the contest.
Madison later carved out a shot under pressure from three defenders, but it proved to be the Sailors’ final meaningful attempt on goal as Albirex held firm, even with several attacking substitutions introduced in the closing stages.
“Despite the loss, I think there were more positives than negatives for us in this game,” reflected Umairah. “The girls did a good job. Everyone gave their all and tried to play really good football.”
The Sailors will have a chance to bounce back next Saturday (24 May), when they take on bottom-placed Balestier Khalsa.
While the Tigresses have shipped 26 goals in just five matches, they will head into the clash with renewed belief after securing their first WPL victory of the season — a 2-1 win over Tanjong Pagar United.
Looking ahead, Umairah stressed the importance of being more clinical in front of goal.
“One thing we must do better is to be more decisive in the final third,” she said. “Chances will come, but we need to optimise them and seize every opportunity.”
“So that’s something we’ll work on — not just in the next game against Balestier, but moving forward as well if we want to achieve the results we’re aiming for.”
There was to be no Cinderella ending to the Lion City Sailors’ fairytale run in the Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) Two, as they fell to a heartbreaking 2-1 defeat to Emirati side Sharjah FC in Sunday’s (18 May) final at the Bishan Stadium.
Trailing 1-0 to a Firas Ben Larbi strike as the match edged into stoppage time, the Sailors showed remarkable resilience in front of esteemed Guest of Honour, Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam, President of the Republic of Singapore, to pull level through Maxime Lestienne.
But just as the partisan 9,737-strong crowd roared them on in hope, Marcus Meloni delivered the decisive blow in the 97th minute to snatch the ACL Two trophy for the visitors.
It was a cruel end to what had been a historic campaign – one that saw the Sailors defy expectations and push the boundaries of Singapore football by reaching a first-ever continental final.
Despite the crushing nature of the defeat, Sailors head coach Aleksandar Ranković was full of praise for his players as he reflected on the magnitude of their achievement.
“We are very disappointed and upset that we lost in that fashion, but at the same time, incredibly proud of how we presented ourselves,” said Ranko. “It was one of those 50-50 games where a single moment decided the outcome, and unfortunately, it didn’t go our way.
“But I have nothing but pride in my boys – for the way they’ve played and the journey we’ve had. We’ve brought something special to Singapore football, and every single one of them did a tremendous job.”
As rain poured down on the newly refurbished 10,000-seater Bishan Stadium, the final kicked off as a cagey affair, with both sides cautiously probing for the right moment to strike. Aside from a disallowed goal by Caio Lucas in the 10th minute for offside, the Sailors’ resolute defensive structure largely succeeded in containing their highly regarded opponents.
The home side’s first real sight at goal came in the 19th minute when a loose ball from a corner fell to Bart Ramselaar on the edge of the area, but his effort was well-blocked by defender Shahin Abdulrahman.
Flying full-back Diogo Costa – who had already made several marauding runs down the left – then nearly opened the scoring in the 34th minute, with a volley from the edge of the box that ricocheted off Sharjah goalkeeper Adel Al-Hosani’s near post.
Sharjah had a chance of their own just before the break, as Luanzinho rose to meet a David Petrovic cross in stoppage time, but the winger’s header flew wide of Izwan Mahbud’s goal.
The Sailors came out strong after the interval, with early second-half efforts from Song Uiyoung and Bart both sailing over the bar. Sharjah gradually began to assert themselves and created their best opening of the match in the 67th minute, but forward Ousmane Camara could only head wide from close range.
That chance proved to be a sign of ominous things to come for the Sailors. Just six minutes later, Caio threaded a brilliant lofted pass to pick out the run of Khaled Ibrahim, who had ghosted in at the far post. The full-back slid the ball across goal for Ben Larbi to tap home the opener for the visitors.
Now chasing the game, the Sailors searched desperately for a breakthrough, and nearly found it in the 83rd minute. A header from Lennart Thy in the Sharjah box deflected off the heel of substitute Shawal Anuar, but the Singaporean international could only send it wide of the goal.
However, as the match ticked into the second of 11 minutes of stoppage time, star man Maxime produced the moment the home fans had been waiting for. Latching onto a low cross from Diogo, the Belgian struck a precise first-time shot with his left foot that flew beyond Al-Hosani and into the net. It was a stunning equaliser that sent the crowd at the Bishan Stadium into raptures, and briefly reignited the Sailors’ hopes.
But the Sailors’ euphoria was short-lived. With the hosts pushing forward in search of a winner, Sharjah struck a cruel counter-punch in the 97th minute. A delightful reverse ball from Caio released Meloni down the left, and the Brazilian-born Emirati skipped past a challenge before rifling a low shot into the bottom corner to swing the final back in his side’s favour.
As the Sailors stared down the barrel, they threw everything they had at Sharjah in a desperate push for another equaliser. But some resolute last-ditch defending from the visitors denied Shawal during a series of frantic goalmouth scrambles. That would be as close as the home side came, as the final whistle sounded after 103 gruelling minutes of football — and the Sailors sank to the turf, heartbroken but proud.
Speaking after the match, Ranko emphasised that the journey — not just the result — will leave a lasting impact.
“Apart from the defeat, the number one lesson we can take away is that we should never stop dreaming and believing,” said the Serbian. “We were the underdogs in almost every game this campaign, and rightfully so because we come from Singapore. If we can achieve even half of what we’ve done this season — especially in the Champions League Two — I’ll be very satisfied.
“This year showed me that if we believe — and of course, if you have such a group of players — you can go so far.”
There will, however, be little time for the Sailors to dwell on this heartbreak, as they return to action on Wednesday (21 May) in the first leg of a crucial Singapore Cup semi-final tie against Brunei DPMM.
As the steadying presence in the dressing room, club captain Hariss Harun was quick to rally the team and turn their attention to the next objective.
“We have one more competition to fight for, so we need to pick ourselves up,” said Hariss. “We can give each other a pat on the back for what we’ve achieved in this ACL Two campaign, but now, it’s about putting this setback behind us and finishing the season strong with another trophy.”
A historic first continental title beckons as the Lion City Sailors lock horns with United Arab Emirates (UAE) heavyweights Sharjah FC in the Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) Two Final 2025 at the Bishan Stadium this Sunday, 18 May.
A sleeping giant
Touted as one of the biggest matches in the Sailors’ short but ambitious five-year history, this final is a golden opportunity for the newly-crowned Singapore Premier League (SPL) champions to carve their name into Asian football folklore.
Victory would not only mark the club’s first major continental title but also a landmark moment for Singapore football.
Standing in their path, however, is a formidable Sharjah side that is equally eager to make history. The final will be the Sailors’ first encounter this season with a West Asian opponent – a new and daunting challenge.
Sharjah’s pedigree is well-established. Once a dominant force in Emirati football, they clinched five UAE Pro League titles and finished runners-up six times between 1973 and 1998. However, success has been harder to come by in recent years, with just one league triumph in the 2018/19 season.
Nevertheless, the club enjoyed a trophy-laden 2022/23 campaign, as they won the UAE Super Cup, League Cup, and President’s Cup to underline their status as a regional powerhouse on the rise.
Now sitting second in the UAE Pro League, Sharjah trail champions Shabab Al-Ahli by 12 points — a gap made all the more painful after losing to the same side in the UAE President’s Cup final on 9 May.
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Sharjah had looked title contenders earlier in the season, racking up 13 wins in their first 14 league games. But a sharp dip in form — with just two victories in their next 10 outings — saw them fall out of the title race. Indeed, they arrive in Singapore on the back of three consecutive league defeats, including back-to-back 3-0 losses to Al Wahda and Al Ain.
However, their continental campaign tells a different story.
In the ACL Two, Sharjah have been a different beast. They topped a tough group featuring Jordanian giants Al-Wehdat and Iran’s Sepahan with four wins from six matches. In the knockout rounds, they edged out Jordan’s Al Hussein and domestic rivals Shabab Al-Ahli — both via penalties — before booking their place in the final with a dramatic 2-1 aggregate win over Saudi Arabia’s Al-Taawoun, courtesy of two stoppage-time goals in the semi-final second leg.
For Sailors head coach Aleksandar Ranković, the final against Sharjah represents the ultimate test of his side’s continental credentials — but it is a challenge they are relishing.
“Sharjah are a team with not just quality on the pitch, but also a strong winning mentality,” said Ranko. “They’ve shown time and again they can grind out results, with late goals and penalty shootouts.
“They’re a physical side, no doubt, but we’ve faced many teams like that in this competition, so we’re ready. We know it’ll be a tough battle, but we are prepared for anyone.”
In the opposition dugout stands Romanian tactician Cosmin Olăroiu, who is widely regarded as one of the Gulf region’s most respected coaching figures. With a glittering résumé, Olăroiu has led some of the UAE’s biggest clubs to glory, including four league titles with Al Ain and Al Ahli.
His trophy haul also boasts five UAE Super Cups, two League Cups, and two President’s Cups, alongside top-flight league triumphs in Romania, China, and Saudi Arabia.
Under his guidance, Sharjah have lost just twice in 12 ACL Two outings — a testament to Olăroiu’s knack for navigating high-stakes continental competitions.
With all that experience in the opposing camp, Sailors captain Hariss Harun knows his side cannot afford any complacency.
“When it comes to finals, form goes out of the window,” said Hariss. “We can talk about how well they’ve played, or how well we’ve played, but it doesn’t matter. In games like this, there are no favourites. It all comes down to who wants it more on the day.”
Blend of quality and experience
With this match set to be Olăroiu’s final bow as Sharjah head coach before he takes over the UAE national team, the 55-year-old will be determined to end his tenure on a high. Aiding his quest is a star-studded squad valued at €43.63 million (Transfermarkt) — more than seven times the Sailors’ squad value.
Among his marquee names is former Moroccan international Adel Taarabt, who is fondly remembered as one of the most technically gifted players to grace English football. The 35-year-old playmaker has turned out for the likes of Tottenham Hotspur, AC Milan, and Benfica, and even featured in a UEFA Champions League quarter-final against Liverpool in 2022.
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Despite being in the twilight of his career, Taarabt remains as influential as ever, and his flair and vision continue to make him a key threat. He has hit double figures in goal contributions every season since his move to the UAE, and has already chalked up nine goals and five assists in all competitions this term.
Leading Sharjah’s attacking line is talismanic forward Caio Lucas. The former Benfica man is the club’s all-time leading goalscorer, with 75 goals in 176 appearances. This season, the 31-year-old has netted 18 goals domestically and added five goals and three assists in 11 ACL Two appearances. Having featured in every edition of the ACL since 2014, Caio’s vast experience will be pivotal in the final.
Olăroiu’s attacking arsenal also boasts talents like left winger Luan Pereira (Luanzinho), who notched five goals and two assists in the ACL Two group stage, and versatile forward Ousmane Camara. Tunisian international Firas Ben Larbi and Brazil youth international Guilherme Biro add further firepower to Sharjah’s formidable frontline.
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Defensively, Sharjah are anchored by South Korean international Cho Yu-min, who memorably registered an assist in a 7-0 victory over Singapore in 2024. Complementing him is Serbian left-back David Petrovic, a tireless 22-year-old who has clocked the most minutes of any outfield player for Sharjah this season.
Their squad depth is further bolstered by six active UAE national team players, including seasoned right-back Khaled Ebraheim and defensive midfielder Majid Rashid — underlining the quality and experience throughout the side.
Embracing the occasion
Even with the obvious quality of their opponents, the Sailors have repeatedly shown they are capable of defying the odds throughout their ACL Two campaign.
Memorable triumphs over Japanese powerhouses Sanfrecce Hiroshima in the quarter-finals and Australian giants Sydney FC in the semi-finals stand as proof. The Sailors have won five of their last seven matches in the competition, a remarkable run that has carried them to the cusp of their greatest achievement since the club’s formation five years ago.
For Ranko, however, this final is not a moment of pressure, but one of opportunity. The Serbian cut a relaxed figure on the eve of the match, as he urged his charges to embrace the occasion and turn belief into performance.
“There is no pressure on the team at all,” said Ranko. “We’ve already made history several times this season, so this is just another chance to prove ourselves, and there’s no better stage than a final.
“Everybody is prepared and focused on getting the win. We’re going to give our best in front of our home crowd tomorrow.”
With a sold-out Bishan Stadium set to transform into a cauldron of noise and colour, Hariss has called on the Sailors faithful to once again make their presence felt.
“Our fans have been a huge part of this campaign,” said the Singapore international. “They’ve followed us home and away, and their support means everything to us. With Bishan’s expanded capacity and the close proximity between players and fans, I’m sure their energy will give us that extra boost tomorrow.”
When Sailors midfielder Nurhidayu Naszri first picked football as a co-curricular activity in Primary 3 at Telok Kurau Primary School, she never imagined that such a simple decision would kickstart an incredible journey.
“I chose to play football because my dad was a huge fan, and I wanted to follow in his footsteps,” explained the 21-year-old. “Being the eldest in the family, I decided to step up and give the sport a try. But back then, I wasn’t very serious about it — I was quite relaxed and never thought I’d go competitive.”
But that gradually changed over the years. As Ayu grew more involved in the sport, her love for the game deepened. And, with a desire to push herself further, she began attending club and national team trials — a bold step that required a complete shift in her mindset.
“Although I enjoyed football a lot, the journey hasn’t been easy,” she reflected. “The competition was intense and I wasn’t as naturally gifted as many of my peers. So I had to put in double the effort — 200% in every training session and match.”
Her perseverance has since paid off. Ayu is now a regular fixture in Daniel Ong’s Sailors side, which has begun their 2025 Women’s Premier League (WPL) campaign in dominant fashion — the reigning champions have won four of their first five matches, scoring 28 goals and conceding just three.
Eight of those goals came in a resounding 8-0 victory over Geylang International last Saturday, with the Sailors netting 17 times in their last two outings.
“That win meant a lot to us,” said Ayu. “We came into the game determined to redeem ourselves after last year’s loss. It was a real team effort — everyone was focused and fully committed for the full 90 minutes.”
The midfielder opened the floodgates for the Sailors, tapping in a cross from Sarah Zu’risqha in the 16th minute to give her side an early lead. It was Ayu’s second goal of the season, having also found the net against Balestier Khalsa earlier in March.
“I’m honestly surprised to have started the season with two goals, as scoring was something I struggled with last year,” admitted Ayu. “Throughout my football journey, I’ve mainly focused on creating chances and providing assists. I never really saw myself as a goalscorer — but now, I’m looking to build on this and contribute even more to the team.”
Just over a month ago, the Sailors were handed a timely reminder of how challenging the season would be, after being held to a goalless draw by Hougang United.
“That game was a wake-up call for all of us,” Ayu recalled. “It demanded a response, and we delivered by putting in extra work during training. It really showed the strength of our team mentality. We stayed united, nobody let their heads drop, and we bounced back from that minor setback with purpose.”
Having joined the Sailors from BG Tampines Rovers in June 2024, Ayu is now approaching her first full year at the club — an experience she describes as both challenging and deeply rewarding.
“As a young player, I never imagined myself playing for a big club like the Sailors,” said Ayu, who earned her first senior cap for Singapore at just 17. “From the moment I signed, everyone has been incredibly supportive and helped me settle in. It’s a real honour to be here, and I’m truly grateful to be part of such a fantastic team.”
A major turning point in her career came in 2023, when she suffered a serious anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury that kept her out for almost a year. Joining a team stacked with national stalwarts and top local talent, Ayu knew she had to work doubly hard to earn her place on the pitch.
“I signed for the club just after completing nine months of rehab,” she shared. “Having been out for so long, I was definitely behind in terms of fitness, strength, and match sharpness.”
“It was a tough time — both physically and mentally — but the constant encouragement from my teammates and coaches really kept me going. Their support gave me the push I needed to stay focused and keep working my way back.”
Nonetheless, setbacks like these have shaped Ayu into the player — and person — she is today. And now, the 21-year-old is beginning to reap the rewards of her perseverance, emerging as an increasingly influential figure in the Sailors’ midfield.
“Joining the Sailors has really empowered me to believe in myself,” said Ayu. “I’ve grown more confident in my decision-making and in stepping up whenever the team needs me. A lot of that growth is thanks to the coaches, teammates, and staff who’ve played a big part in shaping me as a player.”
Now fully fit and firing, Ayu is ready for a blockbuster top-of-the-table clash against Albirex Niigata (S) this Sunday (18 May). The two sides last met in early March, with the Sailors coming from behind to edge a hard-fought 2-1 victory in the season opener.
With the title race already heating up, Daniel knows how crucial every point will be — especially against a rejuvenated Albirex side eager to reclaim the crown.
“We won the league by just a single point last year, so this game could make a big difference,” said Daniel, who identified Japanese trio Kana Kitahara, Ruriko Takashima, and Manami Fukuzawa as Albirex’s key attacking threats.
“Their frontline is dangerous, so we’ll need to work even harder to track their movements and close down the spaces. And when they press us, we must stay calm, be confident on the ball, and trust in our passing game.”
Recording a second league win over the White Swans would send out a statement of intent from the Sailors. But Ayu knows it will be far from easy.
“They’ll come at us even stronger this time, so it’s crucial we stay sharp and cut out the simple mistakes,” she said. “There’s no room for complacency, as the league is much more competitive this season. But we’re fully focused on the goals we’ve set as a team. For us, every league match is a final.”
The Lion City Sailors fell to a 1-0 defeat against Balestier Khalsa at the Jalan Besar Stadium on Wednesday (14 May) night, but the result did little to dampen the celebratory mood as they were officially crowned the 2024/25 Singapore Premier League (SPL) champions by night’s end.
Having wrapped up the title this past weekend with a narrow win over Tanjong Pagar United, the Sailors rotated heavily with one eye on this Sunday’s Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) Two Final against Sharjah FC.
Despite the result, there were still positives for the Sailors to take. Making his first SPL appearance for the club, goalkeeper Adib Azahari impressed with a superb double save just 13 minutes in to deny former Sailor Abdil Qaiyyim and Balestier’s Cher Garang.
Dutch midfielder Bart Ramselaar also made his return from injury and almost marked it with a bang, as he rattled the woodwork with a powerful free-kick shortly after.
But it was Balestier who found the breakthrough in the 31st minute. Another ex-Sailor, Kodai Tanaka, coolly converted from the spot after Ali Alrina was adjudged to have brought him down in the box — a goal that ultimately settled the contest.
Meanwhile, Zulqarnaen Suzliman looked sharp on his first start for the club since suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury in March 2024. The 27-year-old showed no signs of rust, and produced a perfectly timed challenge in the 50th minute to deny Anton Fase from doubling Balestier’s lead.
At the other end, Obren Kljajić came close to pulling the Sailors level just four minutes later — his firm header off a Hafiz Nor cross seemed destined for goal, but was kept out by a stunning acrobatic save from Balestier custodian Hafiz Ahmad.
Head Coach Aleksandar Ranković used the closing stages to hand opportunities to the Sailors’ next generation. Sixteen-year-old Andy Reefqy replaced Bart in the 75th minute and slotted straight into central midfield, while Enrico Silveira, Henry Spence, and Danie Hafiy were also introduced late on.
All four are key figures in the Sailors’ Under-21 side, which clinched the SPL Under-21 title with two games to spare last month. They were fittingly recognised at half-time, as they paraded the trophy on a night of double celebration.
The final whistle eventually confirmed just a fourth defeat for the Sailors in 31 league matches this season — but it mattered little. The night belonged to the champions, who toasted their second league triumph since the club’s inception in 2020.
Donning specially designed Champions Tees for the trophy presentation, the Sailors lifted the 15kg, 67.5cm SPL trophy high into the night sky — the reward for a season defined by grit, consistency, and collective belief.
“I said before the game that it was going to be a beautiful night, and it’s a well-deserved title for the club,” said Ranko, who guided the Sailors to glory in his first full season in charge. “I’m proud of the team, proud of my staff, and proud of everyone at the club. It’s something we’ll all remember.”
Reflecting on the match, he added: “Tonight was a game with no pressure, and the boys who played did really well. It’s not easy stepping in with a completely new line-up, so the result doesn’t matter too much. The young players haven’t had many minutes, but I’m glad I could give them a taste — to let them feel what it’s like to be part of a night like this.”
While this marked a second SPL title for seasoned Sailors like Hariss Harun, Hafiz Nor, and Song Uiyoung — all of whom returned to the club at the start of the season after a year away — it was a maiden league triumph for local stars such as Shawal Anuar and Lionel Tan, as well as European stalwarts Maxime Lestienne and Bailey Wright.
But even as the celebrations unfolded pitchside with family members, Bailey was quick to shift the focus to the next challenge — Sunday’s ACL Two Final, where the Sailors are aiming to become the first Singaporean club to win a major Asian football title.
“It’ll be something truly special — no team from Singapore has done this before,” said the 32-year-old, who has earned 29 caps for Australia. “These kinds of games don’t come around often, and we’re relishing the chance to put Singapore football on the Asian map.
“The belief and togetherness in this team has grown so much this season. We’re starting to believe that anything is possible. I’ve played in high-pressure games like the English Championship playoffs and World Cup qualifiers, and this is right up there as one of the biggest challenges of my career.
“It’s exciting knowing that 10,000 fans will be behind us, and we’re determined to put on the best possible showcase of what this club, and Singapore football, is all about.”
After a dramatic climax to the 2021 Singapore Premier League (SPL) season, the Lion City Sailors clinched their maiden league title at Jalan Besar Stadium with a 4-1 win over Balestier Khalsa — albeit in front of just 1,000 fans due to then-imposed Covid-19 safe management measures.
Three seasons on, with restrictions fully lifted and the title already wrapped up, the Sailors will once again hoist the league trophy at Jalan Besar — after facing Balestier on Wednesday (14 May). Only this time, it will be in front of a capacity crowd.
The Sailors were officially crowned 2024/25 SPL champions after a gritty 1-0 victory over Tanjong Pagar United at the Jurong East Stadium, a result that gives them an unassailable eight-point lead over BG Tampines Rovers with two games to go.
They were made to work hard by the resilient Jaguars, but the Sailors’ defence — marshalled by the experienced Bailey Wright and local stalwart Lionel Tan — held firm to secure the crucial three points.
“Looking back, the league has been more of a marathon than a sprint,” said Lionel as he reflected on the year-long campaign. “Just like any race, the start and the end are always the toughest — and that was the case on Saturday. But what’s most important is that we seized every opportunity to earn points, and I’m glad we did that.”
Lionel, who already has two Singapore Cups and a Community Shield to his name, can now proudly call himself a league champion for the first time in his career. Lining up alongside seasoned centre-backs like Bailey and Toni Datković, the 27-year-old has been a key figure in a backline that has conceded just 31 goals this season — the fewest in the league.
“It’s the first league title for me and for some of the other players as well, and it feels amazing,” said Lionel. “We’ve worked incredibly hard all season because, at the end of the day, it’s all about consistency. For a club of the Sailors’ stature, it’s not just about individual growth — we want to push ourselves as a team and win as many trophies as we can.”
But this title-winning campaign did not come without its share of doubts. The Sailors’ credentials were tested early on, most notably in a shocking 5-0 home defeat to BG Tampines Rovers in July 2024, followed by a 3-1 loss to Albirex Niigata (S) just a month later.
“I still vividly remember that 5-0 loss — it was incredibly difficult to swallow,” Lionel recalled. “We had to iron things out quickly, so we came together right after the game and spoke openly, man to man. We knew what had to change and how crucial it was to move forward. If we had let that result define us, we wouldn’t be where we are today.”
That turning point proved to be a rallying cry for the Sailors. Following the defeat to Albirex, they went on a 16-game unbeaten run in the league — a stretch that lasted until this April. It was a campaign that demanded more than just consistency; it called for real mental resilience, something Lionel credits as being central to his own growth.
“I’m very happy with how much I’ve grown — not just on the pitch, but off it as well. It’s something not many people would notice, but the ups and downs I’ve faced this season have really helped me mature mentally as a player,” he shared.
“All of us have been fighting and putting in the work day in, day out to achieve our goals. This has been one of the longest league campaigns of my career, so lifting the trophy really is the perfect way to end it.”
But before they lift the SPL trophy, the Sailors will need to navigate past a determined Balestier Khalsa side looking to play party-poopers. Despite the league title already secured, Lionel emphasised that the team would not be easing up.
“No matter the circumstances, everyone who puts on the Sailors shirt must bring that character and winning mentality to the pitch,” he said. “The way we fight for the badge should never change — and we’re confident that whoever lines up on the day will give everything to finish strong and take home the three points.”
And as the final whistle nears on a long, hard-fought SPL campaign, Lionel paid tribute to the loyal group of Sailors fans who have stood by the team through every twist and turn.
“I really hope the fans turn up in full force on Wednesday,” he said. “They’ve been with us at every single game, and we’ve built a strong bond over the season. So it would mean a lot to lift the trophy and celebrate this triumph together with all of them.”
The Lion City Sailors have officially reclaimed the Singapore Premier League (SPL) crown after edging past Tanjong Pagar United 1-0 at the Jurong East Stadium on Saturday (10 May).
A coolly-taken penalty by Maxime Lestienne in the first half proved enough to seal the victory and secure the club’s second SPL title — their first since 2021.
While BG Tampines Rovers kept their title hopes alive earlier in the evening with a 2-0 win over the Young Lions — thanks to goals from Itsuki Enomoto and Kyoga Nakamura — it ultimately wasn’t enough, as the Sailors’ victory gave them an unassailable eight-point lead with two games to spare.
“It feels like a big weight is off our shoulders now — winning the SPL was our main target this season,” said Sailors Head Coach Aleksandar Ranković.
“After playing more than 50 matches across all competitions, this is an unbelievable achievement. I’m extremely proud of every single player and our backroom staff for the tremendous job they’ve done. It’s been a long journey, and everyone has worked so hard to get us here.”
Having suffered a surprise defeat to Geylang International in their previous outing, the Sailors were determined to bounce back — and had the perfect opportunity to seal the SPL title against bottom-placed Tanjong Pagar.
Former Jaguars captain Akram Azman, who joined the Sailors in the January transfer window, lined up against his former club as Ranko fielded a strong XI for this crucial game.
The early exchanges saw the Sailors dominate possession in Tanjong Pagar’s half, though without truly threatening Matt Silva’s goal — until Maxime decided to take matters into his own hands.
A trademark piece of trickery from the Belgian winger drew a foul from Marcus Mosses in the box, and after a VAR review, the referee pointed to the spot. Maxime made no mistake, coolly firing straight down the middle to give the Sailors a 1-0 lead — and net his 14th SPL goal of the season in the process.
Maxime came close to adding a second in the 40th minute when he pounced on a misplaced pass from Silva, but his first-time lob sailed just over the bar.
The Sailors nearly doubled their advantage just before the break, when Diogo Costa’s pinpoint corner found Toni Datković, only for the Croatian defender to head wide from close range.
Reflecting on the performance, Toni said, “When you’re striving for perfection, you’re never fully satisfied. Today wasn’t as easy as we expected.
“But we fight for each other — always. That’s why they call us the best defence in the league.”
Truth be told, however, the Sailors’ stellar defence — the best in the league this season — was rarely troubled by Noh Alam Shah’s men.
The pattern remained unchanged in the second half, with Maxime continuing to torment the Tanjong Pagar backline down the left flank. The Belgian looked a constant threat the whole, and often left defenders chasing shadows.
In the 53rd minute, substitute Song Uiyoung picked out Maxime in space, but the latter’s curling effort failed to hit the target.
The Sailors pushed hard for a second goal to put the game to bed, with chances falling to Shawal Anuar, Maxime, and Diogo Costa. But Silva stood firm, as the Tanjong Pagar custodian produced a superb double save in the 82nd minute to deny the Sailors a much-needed cushion.
“I know that in matches like these — especially when there’s a title on the line — nerves can play a part. I won’t lie, at one point I was a little scared because anything can happen in a split second,” admitted Ranko.
“I’ve got to give credit to Tanjong Pagar. They defended well and made things really tough for us today.”
In the 84th minute, Maxime came close once more, only to see his goal-bound effort headed off the line by Mosses, who is currently on loan at Tanjong Pagar from the Sailors.
With the clock ticking down, Ranko turned to the experience of Hariss Harun and Christopher van Huizen to help see out the result as the Sailors held firm to clinch a gritty 1-0 win — and with it, their second SPL title.
“It was an Italian-style 1-0 win tonight,” quipped Ranko. “Honestly, this has been the hardest season of my life.
“Let’s not forget, we’ve done this with a relatively small squad — we don’t have 30 players to rotate. But we’re still hungry. There are more trophies to fight for, and we’re not done yet.”
The Sailors return to SPL action in midweek with a clash against Balestier Khalsa — their penultimate league fixture — before attention turns to a historic showdown next weekend: the Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) Two final against UAE side Sharjah FC at the Bishan Stadium.
Anticipation is reaching fever pitch in Singapore, with tickets snapped up well in advance to watch the Sailors — the first-ever Singaporean club to compete in a continental final — take a massive step towards history in their bid to win the ACL Two.
“We’ve still got a league game against Balestier on Wednesday that we want to win — we’re aiming to break as many SPL records as we can, whether it’s goals scored or number of wins,” said Ranko.
“After that, all our focus shifts to the ACL Two final. I don’t need to motivate anyone for that game — everyone in Singapore is waiting for it!”
The Lion City Sailors Women’s Team emphatically dispelled any notion of Geylang International being their bogey side, as they put eight goals past the Eagles without reply at the Choa Chu Kang Stadium on Saturday (May 10) evening.
Geylang were the only team in the 2024 Women’s Premier League (WPL) season to avoid defeat against the Sailors — and had even brought an end to their 37-match unbeaten run with a shock 2-1 victory last June.
But there was to be no repeat of Geylang’s heroics this time, as the Sailors cruised to victory with goals from Nurhidayu Naszri, Priscille Le Helloco, a brace from Sarah Zu’risqha, and an incredible four-goal haul by Raeka Ee to seal all three points.
“The results against Geylang last season helped us identify specific weaknesses in our game,” said Raeka. “Over the past year, we’ve worked hard on our movement, finishing, and fundamentals — and I think all of that came into play today.”
Indeed, it took the Sailors just 16 minutes to lay down their marker, with Sarah delivering a pinpoint cross for Nurhidayu to tap home and give her side an early lead.
Just four minutes later, the Sailors doubled their advantage. Sarah was once again the provider, dribbling down the right flank before picking out Raeka in the box, who made no mistake from close range.
Priscille then opened her account for the season in the 32nd minute, latching onto a through ball before calmly rounding the goalkeeper and holding off two defenders to slot the ball into an empty net.
Reflecting on her goal, Priscille said, “It was a really good ball played through, and I was just focused on it. When the keeper came out, I tried to take it past her — and once I did, I finished it off.
“It feels really good to score today, especially since we’ve already played a few games this season and I hadn’t scored yet — so it’s nice to finally get one in.”
Two minutes before the break, Raeka effectively put the game beyond doubt with the Sailors’ fourth, as she sprinted onto a delightful chipped pass from Priscille before coolly slotting her shot past the keeper.
Priscille revealed after the game that the assist was the product of growing chemistry between the two forwards.
“Raeka and I have really improved our on-pitch connection — especially after a great training session on Thursday where we linked up well with a lot of good plays,” said the French forward. “So, to replicate that in the game and see it pay off with a goal was really satisfying.
“As a team, we played well together today. We’re starting to understand each other’s movements better, and that’s helped us make more effective passes. There’s always room for improvement, but we’re definitely clicking more and more each week.”
The Sailors picked up right where they left off in the second half, and needed just two minutes after the restart to add a fifth. This time, it was Sarah who finally got on the scoresheet, as her free-kick evaded everyone and wrongfooted the Geylang goalkeeper before nestling into the back of the net.
Six minutes later, Raeka raced onto a through ball from Syazwani Ruzi and fired it past the goalkeeper to complete her hat-trick.
The goals kept coming, and in the 56th minute, Dhaniyah Qasimah threaded a through ball to Priscille, who whipped in a cross for Raeka. Although Raeka narrowly missed the header, the loose ball fell to Cara Chang, who controlled it well before picking out Sarah in the box — and she made no mistake with the finish.
With a seven-goal lead, Sailors Head Coach Daniel Ong rang the changes, with the likes of Putri Alyiah Seow, Mira Ruzana, and Amelia Ng coming on for Priscille, Dhaniyah, and Cara respectively.
One key player, however, remained on the pitch — Raeka. And it was the Sailors’ 2024 WPL top scorer who put the icing on the cake in the 81st minute, running onto Alyiah’s through pass and finishing emphatically to net the Sailors’ eighth of the night.
“It feels great to have scored four goals today, but more importantly, I’m just really happy to help the team get such a good result,” said Raeka, who took her season tally up to seven goals. “Now we’re looking ahead to the game against Albirex Niigata (S) next week — and hopefully, we can get another strong result then.”
With the win, the Sailors stay top of the WPL table with 13 points from five games, with their only points dropped so far coming in last month’s frustrating goalless draw against Hougang United.
For Raeka, producing such a dominant win against a side that had troubled them last season is a timely confidence boost as the Sailors push to retain their title and qualify for the Asian Football Confederation Women’s Champions League (AWCL) next season.
“It was really important for us to get the win, especially after the disappointing result against Hougang United,” Raeka said. “After that game, we knew every match from here on would be crucial in our title chase and in getting back to the AWCL next year. So to come out strong today and deliver such a convincing result meant a lot.”
The Lion City Sailors are now just one win away from clinching the 2024/25 Singapore Premier League (SPL) title.
The title equation shifted on Wednesday night (May 7), when BG Tampines Rovers — the Sailors’ closest challengers — fell to a 1-0 defeat against Balestier Khalsa. Former Sailors forward Kodai Tanaka struck the decisive blow, and the Tigers held firm despite going down to 10 men following Masahiro Sugita’s red card in the 59th minute.
That result leaves the Sailors with an eight-point lead and only three matches left to play — meaning a victory over bottom side Tanjong Pagar United this Saturday (May 10) at Jurong East Stadium would seal the league crown with two games to spare.
Aleksandar Ranković’s men, however, will not be taking anything for granted — especially after a rare stumble last weekend, when they suffered a 3-2 loss to Geylang International that snapped their 16-match unbeaten run in the league. Goals from Lennart Thy and Shawal Anuar had given the Sailors a two-goal advantage, but the Eagles mounted a spirited second-half comeback to take all three points.
“The coaching team and our backroom staff have analysed the previous match while we prepare ourselves in training to do better,” said Shawal, who has now netted 27 goals in all competitions this season.
“We’ve shown all season that we have the resilience to bounce back from setbacks. It’s important we put in a strong performance against Tanjong Pagar to secure the title for the club and our fans.”
Tanjong Pagar may be on a seven-match winless run in the league, but the Sailors know there is no room for complacency at this critical stage of the campaign.
“Balestier’s win against BG Tampines does give us a helping hand, but we still have to get the job done in the next game,” said Shawal. “We don’t take any game lightly, and we’ll do everything we can to secure the three points we need.”
On a personal front, Shawal continues to play a pivotal role for the Sailors. He is currently the club’s second-highest scorer this season, behind only Thy.
His contributions have been especially vital on the continental stage, where he has racked up eight goals and four assists in 12 appearances to help steer the Sailors into the inaugural Asian Football Confederation Champions League (ACL) Two final.
With this season shaping up to be Shawal’s most prolific yet, he is determined to savour every moment of it.
“I’m playing for the biggest club in Singapore, so I always have to give my best — whether it’s through goals or assists,” he shared.
“My goal is to give everything I have in every match. At the same time, I’m aware that I don’t have that many years left in my playing career, so I want to enjoy every moment I get on the pitch.”
With 43 international caps for Singapore, it is perhaps surprising that Shawal had never found the net in continental competition at club level — until this season.
That has changed emphatically in 2024/25, with the 34-year-old proving he has aged like fine wine. Often used as an impact substitute in previous seasons, the pacy forward has embraced every role — whether off the bench or in the starting XI — always maintaining a top-class attitude and an unrelenting hunger for silverware.
“I’m happy that I’ve been able to adapt to situations like this. Last season, I was mostly used off the bench. But now, with the quality I bring to the team, the coach has me starting most of the time,” said Shawal, who etched his name into the history books by scoring the fastest-ever goal in ACL Two — a strike just 18 seconds into the clash against Thailand’s Muangthong United.
“At my age, recovery is crucial. I need to manage my injuries well in training. Even if I’m not starting, I’ll always be ready when called upon.”
The stage is now set for Shawal and his teammates to finish the job and bring the SPL trophy back to the club for the first time since 2021.
And with one hand already on the title, all that is left is to make it official under the Saturday night lights at Jurong East.
The Women’s Premier League (WPL) is finally set to resume this weekend following a break due to the Singapore General Election — and the Lion City Sailors Women will restart their campaign with a high-stakes clash against familiar foes Geylang International FC this Saturday (10 May) at Choa Chu Kang Stadium.
Currently sitting fifth in the standings, Geylang have proven to be a thorn in the Sailors’ side. They famously ended the Sailors’ remarkable 37-match unbeaten streak last season — a run that spanned over two years — and held the champions to a gritty draw last September. In fact, the Eagles remain the only team to avoid defeat against the Sailors in the 2024 season.
As the two sides prepare to face off for the first time since, memories of those hard-fought encounters still linger.
“It was definitely a tough pill to swallow and the team was disappointed with the result, but we took it as a learning experience and grew stronger from it,” reflected Sailors captain Umairah Hamdan.
“Going into Saturday’s game, we’re bringing a fresh sense of desire, hunger, and improved movement. There are lessons we’ve carried over from that match, and we’ll use them to push for a better outcome this time.”
Midfielder Dhaniyah Qasimah may have only joined the Sailors at the start of the 2025 WPL season, but she is well aware of the significance of last season’s results — having watched from the stands as an outsider.
Now an integral part of the squad, the 20-year-old has carried those observations into her game, and is determined to help the team turn the tide.
“I felt that in their last encounter with Geylang, the Sailors didn’t take advantage of some key moments, and that allowed Geylang to break through,” Dhaniyah recalled.
“This time, we’ll focus on being more clinical in front of goal and staying solid defensively. We want to dominate possession, exploit the spaces when we attack, and be more aggressive overall. The aim is to capitalise on our chances and come away with a result.”
The Sailors head into Saturday’s clash with Geylang riding high from a 9-2 win over BG Tampines Rovers nearly three weeks ago. While the scoreline suggests a dominant display, the Sailors started the game slowly, as they conceded an early goal from a corner.
And while the subsequent long break could have disrupted momentum, it became a timely window to regroup and fine-tune key areas. For Umairah — a pillar of the Sailors’ backline — it was an opportunity the team couldn’t afford to waste.
“We used the time to work on our passing chemistry, off-the-ball movement, timed runs, and overall fitness. But one thing really stood out to us: the importance of staying alert,” said the 23-year-old.
“The defence learned that even brief lapses in focus can lead to costly mistakes. Since then, we’ve been dialling in on discipline, communication, and resilience — so we can stay tighter at the back and bounce back stronger.”
Dhaniyah, who also featured in the huge win over BG Tampines, highlighted the team’s continued focus on tightening up at the back.
“We’ve been working on our defensive structure, especially during transitions and set-piece situations,” she shared. “We’ve also refined our pressing game to win the ball back higher up the pitch.”
That preparation will be put to the test against a dangerous Geylang side led by the in-form duo of Farah Nurzahirah and Farhanah Ruhaizat — both of whom featured for the WPL All-Stars against Brisbane Roar in early April.
With Geylang’s strength in the middle of the park, controlling the midfield battle will be crucial to the Sailors’ hopes this Saturday.
“Winning those central duels will be key to disrupting their rhythm and preventing them from building dangerous attacks,” Dhaniyah added. “We’ll need to be aggressive in our pressing, disciplined without the ball, and smart in possession.”
“Our midfield has to dictate the tempo — supporting the forwards while providing cover for the defence. We’re placing a strong emphasis on quick transitions too, so we don’t get caught out by their counter-attacks.”
Coming off an emphatic 8-1 victory over Balestier Khalsa on 16 April, Geylang will be aiming to build on their momentum and continue their climb up the WPL table. With a tough battle on the cards, Umairah’s message to her teammates is clear: stay focused, play their game, and secure all three points.
“We want to play good, entertaining football — and most importantly, come away with the win,” she said. “It’s about showcasing our style while staying locked in on the result.”
