In a strong statement of ambition, the Lion City Sailors Women have bolstered their midfield for the upcoming Asian Football Confederation Women’s Champions League (AWCL) Preliminary Stage with the signing of former Urawa Red Diamonds Ladies starlet, Ami Takeuchi.

The Sailors will face hosts Kelana United, Etihad Club and SDYUSHOR SI – Asiagoal in Group C from 25 to 31 August, with the group winners as well as the best-placed runner-up across the five centralised groups progressing to the tournament proper.

At just 19, Ami arrives with impressive credentials. Rising through the youth ranks of Urawa Reds to play in Japan’s top-tier WE (Women’s Empowerment) League, she also featured in last season’s AWCL – notably scoring in Urawa’s 17-0 victory over India’s Odisha FC in the Group Stage.

(Ami with Urawa Red Diamonds Ladies Sporting Director, Teruhisa Kudo)

Ami was also part of the squad that lifted both the 2023 AFC Women’s Club Championship Invitational Tournament and the 2023/24 WE League title, before finishing third in the recent 2024/25 campaign.

A dynamic midfielder who marries forceful forward runs with a powerful long-range shot, Ami adds further quality to the Sailors’ engine room alongside the likes of Ho Hui Xin, Nurhidayu Naszri and Dorcas Chu. 

“Firstly, I would like to thank Urawa Reds and our management for making this move happen. It’s a big step forward for Singapore women’s football, especially at the club level to secure a quality player like Ami,” said Sailors Women Head Coach Daniel Ong.

(Ami in a familiarisation training session with the Sailors on 18 August)

“To come through the ranks of a top club like Urawa to play in the WE League speaks volumes of her quality and resilience. Her experience in AFC club competitions is a real asset, and we’re looking forward to her making a strong impact for us both on and off the pitch.”

The Sailors fought valiantly in their maiden AWCL campaign last year, but fell short in the Preliminary Stage against Etihad and Odisha. However, Ami is determined to help write a new chapter for the Sailors this time around.

“I’m very excited for this new adventure. The Sailors’ infrastructure and ambitions impressed me greatly, so I didn’t hesitate to join and represent the club in the AWCL,” she said.

“I’ve already met the local players, and they’re all enthusiastic and eager to improve. I hope to grow together with this team, and help us create history in the AWCL.”