Singapore’s national football team, the Lions, gears up for a pivotal clash in the upcoming 2026 World Cup and 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers against China, with a rejuvenated squad handpicked by the newly appointed head coach Tsutomu Ogura. Announced on Friday (Mar 8), the youthful selection highlights Ogura’s strategic vision following his takeover from predecessor Takayuki Nishigaya.
New Era, Young Lions
The 26-player lineup introduced by Ogura features a notable infusion of young talent, with 11 players aged 24 or under, signaling a fresh direction for the team. The squad includes four players yet to make their international debut, alongside six others with fewer than 10 appearances, emphasizing the coach’s confidence in the next generation of Singaporean footballers.
Upcoming Challenges
The Lions are set to host China at the National Stadium on Mar 21, followed by a rematch in Tianjin on Mar 26. Positioned at 156th in the FIFA men’s ranking, Singapore faces a formidable opponent in 88th-ranked China, making these encounters crucial tests for Ogura’s youthful squad.
Also learn about Singapore Football Takes New Direction: Nishigaya’s Tenure as National Head Coach Ends.
