Hong Kong: With Singapore on the verge of history, potentially qualifying for their first-ever AFC Asian Cup Finals, the mood in Hong Kong was intense but optimistic as the Lions addressed the media on the eve of their decisive showdown. Both teams sit level on eight points, but Singapore’s camp spoke with clarity, conviction, and a quiet fire.

Back in the national setup after a turbulent, injury-ridden year, Faris Ramli opened the session with humility but unmistakable hunger. “As a professional footballer, you need to have that never-say-die attitude,” he shared.

Calling 2024–2025 “a rollercoaster”, Faris described three different injuries that derailed his momentum, but not his belief. “It’s God’s plan. You can change frustration into motivation in the blink of an eye, watching the national team play frustrates me, but it also motivates me.”

His recent goal, a sharp, instinctive finish, carried more emotional weight than fans realised.
“Coach Gavin always told me, make your comeback bigger than your setback. I tried to hold onto that through every injury.”

Now 100% fit and returning to form at club level, Faris emphasised his role as a senior figure in a squad chasing a once-in-a-generation opportunity: “This Asian Cup is something we want to set up for ourselves. But at the same time, the most important thing is for the nation.”

To the travelling fans, he was heartfelt: “There’s no football without the fans. I just want them to be happy. They deserve more, and we hope we can give them something big on Tuesday.”

Singapore’s in-form wide attacker, Glenn Kweh, was composed as always — but very aware of the moment. His recent goals for the Lions lifted a weight off his shoulders: “I guess it’s a relief. Scoring for the national team is a dream come true.”

On the impressive composed finish for Tampines that caught everyone’s attention: “I didn’t even see the ball, I was just in a flow state.”

Glenn acknowledged that Hong Kong at home would be a different test from the earlier showdown at the Sports Hub. “They’re going to come at us harder. The stadium is sold out. And because of that, we have to be a lot more prepared.”

Despite his reserved demeanour, he admitted the rivalry and stakes fuel his inner drive: “I’m competitive. I don’t need extra motivation, this is the kind of game every footballer dreams of.”

On dealing with fan expectations, especially after a surge of praise: “It’s rewarding to see. I’ve been working hard every day. It definitely pushes me to do even better.”

To the large contingent of Singaporeans travelling to Hong Kong: “I’m very grateful. I hope we can put on a good showing, and hopefully make history.”

Captain Hariss Harun brought authority and perspective as he reflected on the journey from the previous international window. “We knew the significance of this window, and playing against Thailand gave us a very good preparatory test.”

He revisited the late heartbreak against India in Singapore, a moment that lingered emotionally, but not mentally: “I was frustrated and disappointed. But in football, unexpected things happen. You put it behind you and look at the next chance.”

The captain praised the squad’s resilience. “When we go behind, we don’t drop our heads. We claw our way back. That shows our mindset.”

As a leader, he keeps things simple: “Each call-up is a duty, a calling. The younger ones need to see how you prepare, how you conduct yourself. This is how we move forward as a team.”

On the supporters travelling in huge numbers, arguably the largest Singapore away contingent in over a decade: “It’s really special. It shows how much it means to everyone, and we really want to reward all of you in the best way possible. I hope we’ll be smiling and hugging each other at the end of the game.”

The winner of this match could take control of Group C, with qualification for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup in sight. This would also potentially mark Singapore’s first-ever Asian Cup Finals qualification: a historic milestone. Away-end tickets at Kai Tak Stadium have been released exclusively for Singapore fans. Supporters are urged to secure travel and match arrangements promptly.

For Singapore, this is a match that represents a culmination of fight, belief, and a squad that has grown through adversity. On Tuesday night, 18 November, the Lions have the opportunity to write a new chapter in Singapore football. And judging from the voices in the room, they intend to seize it.

Photo Credit: FAS

Singapore plays Hong Kong in the AFC Asian Cup Qualifier on 18th November 2025 at Kai Tak Stadium.