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DHAKA – Ikhsan Fandi’s return to the Singapore national team proved triumphant as his goal secured a 2-1 victory against Bangladesh in their Asian Cup third-round qualifier. The match, held at the National Stadium in Dhaka, saw a packed crowd of 21,317 cheering on their teams.

Fandi’s 58th-minute strike marked his third goal in two appearances for the Lions, following a brace in a friendly against the Maldives earlier in June. Despite the win, the forward expressed a desire for advancement, acknowledging missed opportunities during the game.

“Feels good, but honestly I’m not happy with my performance, wasn’t a good game from me,” said Ikhsan Fandi, reflecting on the match. “It was a really tough game, a lot of external factors we couldn’t control, but I’m glad we managed to pull through.”

Overcoming recent injuries,Fandi is also looking forward to a loan move to Ratchaburi FC in the Thai league for the 2025-26 season. His parent club, BG Pathum, will allow him to join Ratchaburi, who will also be competing in the AFC Champions League Two.

“Now its time to take a break. I’m excited for my next season with Ratchaburi, I hope to bring this version of myself there,” he added.

Tough Victory in Dhaka

The match in Dhaka was a physical contest, with both teams battling fiercely.Singapore, ranked 161st globally, faced a persistent Bangladesh side, ranked 183rd. The game saw aggressive tackles and a bloodied face for defender Jordan Emaviwe early on.

“I really appreciate the players. For 100 minutes, they kept the concentration and fighting spirit.”
– Tsutomu Ogura, Lions Coach

Despite the challenges, the Lions maintained composure and secured the win, placing them at the top of Group C alongside Hong Kong. Hong Kong secured a 1-0 victory against India with a late penalty. Singapore and Hong Kong both have four points, while Bangladesh and India have one point each.

Coach’s Pride

Lions coach Tsutomu Ogura praised his team’s resilience and fighting spirit. “I really appreciate the players. for 100 minutes, they kept the concentration and fighting spirit,” he said. “When someone was injured, they covered for each other. I am very proud of our players.”

Singapore opened the scoring just before half-time when Harhys Stewart set up Song Ui-young after a goalkeeping error. Ikhsan Fandi then scored the second goal, capitalizing on a parried shot. Bangladesh responded with a goal in the 67th minute, but Singapore held on for the win despite a lengthy stoppage time.

The Lions previously drew 0-0 with Hong Kong in their opening match. Bangladesh had also drawn 0-0 with India in their first game.

Only the group winners will qualify for the Asian Cup in 2027. Singapore’s only appearance in the Asian Cup was as hosts in 1984.

In other news,captain Hariss Harun matched Daniel Bennett’s record of 142 caps for Singapore.

Singapore will face India in a double-header in October for their upcoming Asian Cup qualifiers.