With back-to-back victories that sealed their place in the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Women’s Champions League (AWCL) group stage, the Lion City Sailors Women’s Team have defied expectations—transforming from underdogs into history-makers.
They now head into their final Preliminary Stage Group C fixture against Kyrgyz Republic’s SDYUSHOR SI – Asiagoal on Sunday (31 Aug) at the Hang Jebat Stadium knowing their ticket to the AWCL proper is already secured, but are nonetheless determined to finish the round on a high.
Having endured straight defeats in last year’s AWCL, Sailors attacker Dorcas Chu admits it still feels surreal that the team have engineered such a turnaround this campaign.
“I never imagined calling a club from Singapore undefeated, especially when we came into the tournament as underdogs. It’d be amazing to claim that title this year,” she said.
“We made history by being the first club to win a game in the AWCL. Then we made history again by becoming the first from Singapore to qualify for the AWCL proper. In the third game, we want to be the first to go unbeaten.”
Forward Sarah Zu’risqha, who started both victories against Etihad Club and Kelana United, echoed her teammate’s determination.
“Honestly, to start both games has been unreal. I’m just happy to show what I can do,” said the 19-year-old, who came close to scoring on two occasions against Etihad.
“We’re very eager to attain all nine points. We want to wrap this up on a high. It’ll mean a lot to the team and show what we can do not only in Singapore, but on the regional stage.”
Facing quality opposition like Etihad and Kelana has sharpened the Sailors’ play and strengthened their chemistry, according to Dorcas, who is determined to carry that momentum into their next game.
“The victories have boosted our confidence and strengthened our unity. Though we’ve qualified, it’s easy to be complacent, but we haven’t switched off,” said the 23-year-old, who featured off the bench in both matches.
“There are still gaps in how we defend and press as a team. We tend to struggle more in the first half but regroup in the second. On Sunday, I hope we can start strong right from the whistle.”
For Dorcas, the Sailors’ AWCL journey so far has been an incredibly emotional and rewarding experience on a personal level.
“My favourite moment? Definitely the first game. I cried my eyes out when the referee blew the final whistle. All the emotions from last year’s loss to Etihad — feelings of hopelessness and defeat — came rushing back. To finally achieve that win, especially after coming back from a minor injury, was surreal,” she recalled.
“I got emotional because I thought about everything we went through to achieve that result. It was unbelievable.”
For Sarah, the highlight has been more about soaking up the journey with her teammates.
“My favourite part of the tournament has been just being out there with the team — playing together, making history together, and enjoying every moment.”
