In a fiercely contested match at the Jalan Besar Stadium on Tuesday, Singapore and Hong Kong played out a 0-0 draw in their Asian Cup qualifier. In a game of contrasting fortunes, Singapore started off in blistering form, while opponents Hong Kong coming into the match had a seven-match winning streak. Singapore got off to an amazing start as Lionel Tan found the net with just two minutes gone. The goal was ruled out. Neither could find a way past each other, ensuring intense contests lie ahead in the group.
Singapore's Strong Start
Singapore opened the match on the offensive. They were hungry to recover after suffering a stinging home defeat by Nepal, 1-0, in a friendly match played just last Friday. Winger Glenn Kweh added an infectious exuberance to the right wing. He was a constant threat to defenders and service into the box was pinpoint from him. In the 25th minute, Singapore found themselves with a golden opportunity. As the Energy lacked for a spark, Harhys Stewart sent in a dangerous cross from the left and a missed opportunity went by.
Lionel Tan extended the home side’s lead, firing into the net from a short corner. He found the net in less than two minutes! To the home fans’ chagrin, the goal was disallowed. The Lions continued to apply offensive pressure. Substitute Kyoga Nakamura almost made it two within seconds of his introduction but he was denied from close range.
Hong Kong Holds Firm
Hong Kong took the field with swagger, riding their hot streak. Led by head coach Ashley Westwood, they were looking to build on that success. Although beginning very slowly, as Westwood conceded after the match, they were able to stop Singapore’s rising threat in attack. Westwood acknowledged the poor first-half performance from his side:
"We were poor (in the) first half, there's no denying that," said Westwood.
He further commented on the team's initial sluggishness and credited their ability to regroup at halftime:
"And in the end, after galvanising ourselves and dusting ourselves off at half-time, and coming together, and having a few home truths, we dug in well."
Hong Kong's defense held firm throughout, resisting Singapore's advances and ensuring their impressive run continued without conceding.
Path Forward for Singapore
Every one of the leaders to the six groups will qualify for the 2027 Asian Cup. This spells a difficult path moving forward for Singapore. In terms of FIFA world rankings, India is still the top-rated team in the group, currently ranked 126th. That puts even more pressure on Singapore to win their remaining matches.
Glenn Kweh highlighted areas for improvement:
"Outside the penalty box, we showed our football. But we must improve more inside the penalty box, we must improve more with scoring goals."
Singapore will next resume their campaign with an away tie against Bangladesh in June. This fixture presents an opportunity for them to refine their strategies and aim for a spot in the prestigious tournament.
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