Eager to bounce back after a 1-0 loss against Nepal, Singapore look to take advantage of the home support as they begin the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers campaign against Hong Kong
Team Singapore's national football team are set to kick off their year-long road to the Asian Cup 2027 tonight against 155th-ranked Hong Kong. Unlike Hong Kong, Singapore have never qualified for the Asian Cup, except for the 1984 edition which was held in Singapore.
The Hong Kong side historically stepped onto the continental stage in the 2023 Asian Cup in Qatar, their first in 55 years—and they'll be looking to replicate it once again in Saudi Arabia two years from now.
Shah Shahiran believes that his side—ranked five spots below their opponents in the FIFA World Rankings—needs to focus on their football and taking advantage of the home support.
"Hong Kong have qualified for the Asian Cup before but it’s important to focus on ourselves and play to our abilities, follow Coach Ogura's philosophies and do whatever it takes to get the three points," said the midfielder.
"We have home advantage tomorrow. We just have to take advantage of playing here and win all the games we play in our home country."
Singapore' Head Coach, Tsutomu Ogura echoes his midfielder's sentiments, and reiterates the importance of the players giving their all in every game.
“Life as a National Team player can be very short. Not only for players, but it’s also the same for me. In the National Team, every game is important. Players understand this," shared Ogura
“The game they play tomorrow could be their last game in the National Team. I want to see how they react. I want to see everyone treat every game as if it’s their last game, starting tomorrow.”
While it's important for the players to learn from the disappointing 1-0 loss to Nepal last week, Ogura called on his charges to reset their minds and focus on moving forward. Though the team have only scored once in their last four matches, both Shah and Ogura's confidence in the team and their forwards remain steadfast.
The Japanese coach expressed pride in their young squad and emphasized the need for continued teamwork.
"In their last competition, Hong Kong played well. We respect them, but not too much. If we have good defence, we build up well and make good passes, the chances of the attackers scoring is higher," said Ogura.
"Compared to AFF (Mitsubishi Electric Cup), the players are younger in this squad. We are trying to put up a challenge in this campaign. I’m very proud of the senior players who have taken responsibility. Tomorrow, our younger players will show on the pitch the experience the seniors have shared."
Singapore will take on Hong Kong tonight (25 March) at the Singapore National Stadium at 8.30pm. Tickets are still available here.
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