The stage is set for a high-stakes clash at the National Stadium as Singapore take on India in the third round of the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ Qualifiers. With Singapore sitting top of the group on four points and India on one, tomorrow’s encounter could prove decisive in shaping the path toward qualification.

Recent history gives Singapore reason for optimism: the Lions have had the upper hand in this fixture, winning twice and drawing once in their last three meetings with India. Yet both sides arrive in contrasting circumstances: Singapore are looking to consolidate their momentum under interim coach Gavin Lee, while India, led by Khalid Jamil, are determined to revive their campaign after a cautious start.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Lions Coach Gavin Lee emphasised the importance of consistency and composure. “For us as a team, tomorrow is just like every other game in this campaign. It’s all about the three points,” he said. “We are very focused. We know what we have to do on the pitch. Now it’s about delivering it tomorrow.”

Captain Hariss Harun echoed that sentiment, urging his teammates to maintain perspective. “We’re in a good position now, but that doesn’t mean anything. Nothing is won or lost yet,” Hariss said. “These two games are crucial, but we must not get carried away. The key is to impose ourselves for longer periods and manage the game well.”

Since taking over as interim head coach earlier this year, Lee has sought to build on the foundation left by his predecessor. “We’re very fortunate that Coach Ogura left us a strong base,” he explained. “My job is to continue improving, maintain the standards we set for ourselves, and leave the shirt in a better place for the future.”

That sense of long-term growth is reflected in the inclusion of several young talents such as Jordan Emaviwe and Julian Raj. “When young players come through, they’re not just here to participate but to contribute their part,” said Lee. “We’re lucky to have experienced figures like Hariss and Safuwan to guide them, on and off the pitch.”

Hariss, a stalwart of the national setup, also praised the work of the interim coach. “He’s been with the team for a while and knows what he wants from us,” Hariss said. “He believes in the players, sometimes more than we believe in ourselves, and that gives us confidence.”

On the opposite side, India head coach Khalid Jamil is fully aware of the challenge his side faces in Singapore. “We know it’s a very important game,” Jamil said. “We are playing away, so we have to be very careful. Singapore have a good coach and quality players. We cannot take this match lightly at all.”

Jamil, who led India to a third-place finish at the CAFA Cup, believes his players are prepared despite the disruption caused by the suspension of the domestic league. “The players are very professional,” he said. “They understand the importance of this game and are taking full responsibility. The CAFA Cup tournament helped us – it gave us good preparation and 20 days of solid training.”

Young winger Vikram Partap Singh, representing India at the press conference, shared the coach’s optimism. “Our approach is simple: we want to win,” Vikram said confidently. “Everyone is ready, everyone has trained well. Even with the league break, we’ve been doing our best to keep ourselves sharp.”

The 22-year-old, who plays for Mumbai City FC, also highlighted the influence of veteran striker Sunil Chhetri. “Playing with someone like Sunil bhai is a pleasure,” he smiled. “He teaches us so much, not just on the pitch but also in training. His experience motivates us all.”

There is mutual respect between the two coaches. Gavin Lee acknowledged India’s structured approach under Jamil: “They have a very distinct style of play, that kind of clarity comes from good coaching,” he said. “Their performance at the CAFA Cup, especially beating Oman in the third-place match, shows they’re not a team anyone can take lightly.”

Jamil, meanwhile, was complimentary about Singapore’s organization and quality. “Singapore have good players and a strong coach,” he said. “We’ve watched their matches. They’re disciplined and play good football. But our focus must be on our own game.”

With a large Indian community in Singapore, both teams expect a lively crowd at the National Stadium. “It’s very important for fans to come and support us,” said Jamil. “Their energy helps us perform better. We hope to see them in the stands.”

Vikram added that even the away atmosphere could inspire the Blue Tigers. “If the stadium is full, even with more Singapore fans, it motivates us more. We love that challenge.”

On the home side, Hariss believes the National Stadium crowd can make a difference. “Playing at home gives us a boost,” he said. “We want to make our fans proud. That’s our main motivation.”

With Singapore leading the group and India seeking their first win, tomorrow’s fixture promises intensity, strategy, and pride. Both coaches have stressed focus, balance, and discipline, and both captains have spoken about belief and responsibility.

As Gavin Lee summed it up: “Ultimately, our aim is to give the people a national team they can be proud of. If we do that, the results will follow.”

Singapore plays India for the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ on 9th October 2025 at the National Stadium. Tickets and more information available here