Gavin Lee Names 23-Man Lions Squad for FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 as Safuwan Baharudin and Faris Ramli Return

Singapore Men’s National Team head coach Gavin Lee has officially announced his 23-player squad for the upcoming FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026, taking place from 24 September to 5 October across Indonesia.

The Lions enter the tournament carrying positive momentum following a spirited semi-final finish at the ASEAN Championship Hyundai Cup 2026, which featured a landmark away victory over Thailand—Singapore’s first win on Thai soil since 2009. The regional campaign serves as a crucial measuring stick in the Lions' long-term roadmap toward the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027.

“We have shown glimpses of what is possible and have made some encouraging progress over the last few months, so we want to continue building on that,” said the 36-year-old tactician. “At the same time, the relationship we have built with the fans is something we will not take for granted. We have to recognise that it is not an entitlement and we have to continue earning their support. For that, we must stay humble and hungry, remove distractions as we want to put our attention on things that are important for us to achieve the desired performances.”

Veteran Experience Bolsters the Ranks, Maiden Call-up for Haziq Kamarudin

Lee’s latest selection features an intentional balance of seasoned international pedigree and emerging Singapore Premier League (SPL) talent.

Highlighting the defensive reinforcements are experienced Selangor FC centre-back Safuwan Baharudin (133 caps) and Tampines Rovers full-back Irfan Najeeb, both recalled after missing the recent regional championship. In attack, dynamic winger Faris Ramli returns to the national fold for the first time since November, adding firepower alongside in-form forwards Shawal Anuar and Ilhan Fandi.

Photo: SportPlus.sg / Aldrich Goh

The headline inclusion in midfield is uncapped Haziq Kamarudin, who earns his maiden senior call-up following standout performances in the domestic league with FC Jurong.

Addressing Haziq’s inclusion, Lee noted: “We have been following Haziq's progress for a while now. There is the consistency of always trying his best and the willingness to do everything for the team. Those qualities are always important to form a strong group, and we look forward to seeing him in our environment.”

Overseas-based talent also features, with midfielder Harhys Stewart traveling from Thai outfit Chiangrai United to link up with national team captain Hariss Harun and midfield regulars Shah Shahiran, Song Uiyoung, and Kyoga Nakamura.

FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026: Tournament Format & Group A Fixtures

The Division 1 tournament features eight nations split across two groups. Group winners will book an automatic spot in the Final, while the second-placed sides will square off in the Bronze Final.

Singapore faces a stern test in Group A, kicking off under the lights against tournament hosts Indonesia at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium before shifting to Bandung for matches against Bangladesh and a Causeway Derby against Malaysia.

“We expect a strong challenge at this competition,” Lee added. “There will be good performances and difficult moments, but those experiences are necessary if we want to become a stronger National Team. What is important is how we respond to those bumps on the road, learn from them, and continue moving forward together.”

Photo: SportPlus.sg / Hana Basir

Complete Singapore 23-Player Squad Roster

Goalkeepers: Izwan Mahbud (Young Lions), Syazwan Buhari (Tampines Rovers), Ridhuan Barudin (Hougang United).

Defenders: Hariss Harun, Nur Adam Abdullah, Ryhan Stewart, Lionel Tan (all Lion City Sailors), Irfan Najeeb, Raoul Suhaimi (both Tampines Rovers), Safuwan Baharudin (Selangor FC).

Midfielders: Farhan Zulkifli, Hami Syahin, Glenn Kweh, Kyoga Nakamura, Song Uiyoung (all Lion City Sailors), Jacob Mahler, Shah Shahiran (both Tampines Rovers), Joel Chew (Young Lions), Haziq Kamarudin (FC Jurong), Harhys Stewart (Chiangrai United).

Forwards: Shawal Anuar, Ilhan Fandi (both Lion City Sailors), Faris Ramli (Tampines Rovers).