Bernard Tan reflects on the state of Singaporean football after a devastating loss and outlines steps for improvement.
The once-proud Singapore football roar was silenced on 1/05/2023, following a crushing 7-0 loss to Malaysia in the SEA Games group stage. This staggering defeat left fans, both loyal and casual, grappling with disappointment. While some rallied around the team for their commitment, many voiced frustrations about what seems like a long-term rut in Singapore’s football performance.
From a 4-1 loss to Malaysia in the AFF Mitsubishi Electric Cup in January to a 5-1 exit against South Korea in the 2021 Under-23 Asian Cup qualifiers, the national team’s struggles extend beyond a single game. Fans expect fighting spirit, even in defeat—a quality painfully absent in the latest debacle.
Amid the backlash, Bernard Tan, the Acting President of the Football Association of Singapore (FAS), offered candid insights into the challenges and steps ahead.
Tan described the loss to Malaysia as “devastating” both personally and professionally. “To see the team crumble like that was heartbreaking,” he admitted. Reflecting on the 7-0 scoreline, he highlighted a lack of organization and discipline, stating that while Singaporeans accept that the team may not be the best in ASEAN, they expect performances that honor the jersey.
When asked about the harsh criticisms, Tan agreed they were valid, emphasizing that players are expected to show heart and grit in every match. Following the SEA Games, the FAS initiated a six-week review process, temporarily halting the under-22 squad’s participation in international tournaments to focus on preparation and rebuilding.
Tan addressed the possibility of incorporating overseas talent, such as Sunderland’s Luke O’Nien, under FIFA rules. While open to the idea, Tan noted the complications arising from Singapore’s strict stance on dual citizenship, which requires players to renounce their original nationality.
He also elaborated on the Unleash The Roar (UTR) initiative, designed to accelerate player development and reduce the stark experience gap with other ASEAN teams. Citing examples from Thailand, he pointed out that their players often debut in professional leagues by 17, gaining valuable experience early on. In contrast, Singaporean players average their debuts at 21 or 22, putting them at a disadvantage in regional tournaments. The UTR movement aims to ensure younger players debut earlier and accumulate significant match experience by their early 20s. “We need our best players playing at a higher level much earlier,” Tan explained.
Despite the challenges, Tan remains optimistic. The path to revitalizing Singapore football is steep, but with focused initiatives and hard work, he believes the national team can reclaim its competitive edge and restore pride in the sport.
