Singapore's Coach Warns Against Underestimating Timor Leste
Ahead of the ASEAN Cup match, Singapore's coach Gavin Lee cautions his team not to underestimate Timor

In a commanding performance, Singapore triumphed over Timor Leste with a score of 2-0 in their second match of the AFF Cup 2026. The match, held at Singapore's home ground, showcased the team's strength in aerial duels, which proved to be a nightmare for Timor Leste.
After a successful opening match, Singapore was eager to continue their winning streak. The first half saw Singapore applying relentless pressure on Timor Leste's defense. In the 30th minute, Irfan Fandi found the back of the net with a powerful header, but the goal was disallowed due to an offside call. However, the home team did not have to wait long for a breakthrough. Just before halftime, in the 41st minute, Ilhan Fandi scored the opening goal with another header, giving Singapore a 1-0 lead.
The second half continued in a similar fashion, with Singapore dominating the play. In the 55th minute, Song Ul Young doubled the lead with a strong header from a cross by Kyoga Nakamura. Timor Leste struggled to create any significant chances throughout the match, ultimately succumbing to a 2-0 defeat.
With this victory, Singapore now sits at the top of Group A in the AFF Cup 2026 with 6 points from 2 matches, 3 points ahead of Vietnam, although they have played one more game. The two teams are set to face each other directly on July 31 at My Dinh Stadium, which will be a crucial match for both sides.
The final score was Singapore 2, Timor Leste 0, with goals from Ilhan Fandi in the 41st minute and Song Ul Young in the 56th minute.
Starting lineup for Singapore included: Mahbud, Stewart, Harun, Fandi Irfan, Song Ul Young, Nakamura, Shahiran, Glenn Kweh, Ilhan Fandi, Lionel Tan, and Irfan Fandi. Timor Leste's lineup featured: Dylan Jose Niski, Jackson Pereira, Eric Tomas T. Silva, Luis Figo Pereira Ribeiro, Claudio Gomes Osorio, Joao Rangel, Zenivio Mota, Xavi Arrarte, Zion Cruz, Ryan Harris Jom, and Liam Farrugia.