BG Tampines Rovers FC continue their dream run in the AFC Champions League Two 2025/26 campaign as they prepare to host Kaya FC–Iloilo in what promises to be a high-stakes encounter. A powerhouse in the Singapore Premier League, the Stags remain unbeaten in Group H and top the table with 10 points, boasting a historic 1-0 win against Korean giants Pohang Steelers. With just one point needed to secure qualification for the Round of 16, Tampines are in a strong position to make club history.

At the pre-match press conference, Tampines head coach Noh Rahman expressed his focus ahead of the game: “Obviously we are going into the game, we knew the situation at the moment with the groups, and we are just looking forward and trying to continue.” On the question of complacency against a team at the bottom of the group, he remained resolute: “No, I think we are fully focused. We spoke about this earlier in the week, leading up to this game, and I think everyone knows the importance of this game, especially Will as well.”

Coach Noh also reflected on personal highs and lows, showing the human side behind the managerial role. “Yeah, I think life can sometimes humble you in many ways,” he said. “I’ve experienced the highest point in Hong Kong, and then a few days later you are at the wrong or different end of the loop. But again, this is life.” Despite the emotional week, he emphasized the club’s priorities: “It was a little bit emotional going into this week. But again, as I said, I put all the club actually, because potentially this is an important game. Because this game, this club can be sad, so that’s even more important in that sense.”

On the players’ mindset for tomorrow, Coach Noh was confident: “The team knows quite well, every game week, going into the game week, whether that’s Pohang, whether that’s Kaya, whether that’s Ballester. So in that sense, I think we are quite clear about our intention, about our purpose.”

Defender Shuya Yamashita highlighted the team’s commitment on the pitch: “Honestly, this is just desire. We just really want to win the last two games. Actually, every single game. That’s why we can block for 90 minutes. In the last game, it was quite late. We conceded, but we still could get one point. So it’s just desire for winning.”

On the other side, Kaya Iloilo arrive in Singapore looking to bounce back in their AFC Champions League Two campaign. Having yet to secure a point in the group, head coach Yu Hoshide acknowledged the challenges ahead: “Yes, unfortunately, we are not able to get 3 points yet or even 1 point. We hope we will try to get 3 points tomorrow. We will try our best tomorrow.”

Coach Hoshide emphasized the team’s steady improvement: “Game by game we are getting better. In the last game, we were able to score, that was the first goal for us in the Champions League campaign. We are really getting better, so we will try our best tomorrow. Also, the players have confidence, they are getting confidence from this competition.”

Player Kaishu Yamazaki, who has extensive experience in Singapore football, offered insights from his past encounters with Tampines players: “I’ll try to explain, for example, I know a few players, Tampines players like Shuyao, Xiao. I think this player is a kind of player he likes.”

When asked about the motivation for representing the Philippines on this stage, Coach Hoshide added: “Yes, actually we are Japanese, but yes, I know a lot of us tomorrow. So that is our echo, I hope.” Despite the uphill task, Kaya’s determination is clear—they are ready to test the league leaders on their home turf.

As the Stags prepare for a crucial home clash, the contrast in approaches is evident: Tampines exude confidence and composure, while Kaya Iloilo carry the hunger and resolve of a team desperate for their first points. With history on the line for both sides, Matchday 5 in Singapore promises an intense and memorable battle in Group H.

AFC Champions League Two – Tampines Rovers FC (SGP) vs Kaya FC-Iloilo (PHI) plays on 27th November 2025 at Bishan Stadium. Tickets available here