SINGAPORE – What began with a critical reaction to a 2-2 draw against China in March 2024 has culminated in a sense of pride for Tsutomu Ogura, who recently stepped down as Singapore’s Lions coach. Ogura’s initial dissatisfaction stemmed from his belief that the team should never settle for a draw.

Fifteen months after that debut,Ogura departs,satisfied that he has instilled a shift in the team’s mentality.

The Lions’ recent 2-1 victory over Bangladesh in an Asian Cup qualifier on June 10 exemplifies this change.The players’ dissatisfaction, despite overcoming a tough opponent in front of a hostile crowd, signals a new level of ambition within the team.

The Japanese coach noted the enthusiasm of players on the sidelines during the match in Dhaka, highlighting their support for their teammates on the field.

“I am very proud…because there has been a change (in mentality),” said the 58-year-old as he reflected on his time with the Lions in an interview.

“Even in our first Asian Cup qualifier against Hong Kong (which ended in a 0-0 draw in March) who are higher than us in ranking, nobody was satisfied with the draw. People were disappointed and felt we should win. I am very happy about this.”

Ogura, who was appointed in February 2024 on a two-year contract, resigned on June 24, citing personal reasons, according to the Football Association of Singapore (FAS).

Despite his relatively short tenure of 509 days, Ogura expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance in his final match.

“Bangladesh was a very hard game for us, as it was an away match, in a full stadium of home fans,” he added. “It was physical and it was at the end of a long club season for so many players especially those from Lion City Sailors. They were very tired, almost dying and it is arduous in this situation to have emotional control.”

“I’m very proud of them, yes it is not perfect, but we have built together a good atmosphere and high motivation within the team now. it’s easy to say ‘we must work together as one team’,but this is not something you can teach,you need (time) to create that feeling.”

Lions captain Hariss Harun echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Ogura’s focus on team unity from the beginning.

The 34-year-old added that Ogura consistently demanded the best from his players,setting a high standard: “Team spirit and togetherness are the things that he was emphasising from day one. It has taken time for it to show.”

“When he started to say it back in March 2024, maybe there were some players who looked at each other and wondered what this guy was talking about. Even with the players he chose (for the squad), he did so based on their temperament and character, and how they can help the team on and off the pitch, even when they’re not playing. So I think all of that helps to create what we have built.”

“I’m not saying it’s perfect, as there’s still a lot to improve. But it is a pity that after we have established this,he’s leaving.”

Ogura told ST that a family issue, which surfaced in january, necessitated his return home.

While he declined to elaborate, Ogura said: “My priority now is to be with my family and help them.This was a very hard decision to make, of course… but my family has supported me for a long time.”

Gavin Lee, formerly the coach of BG Tampines Rovers and Ogura’s assistant, has been appointed as interim coach while the search for a permanent replacement commences.

Ogura’s record during his 16 matches as Lions coach includes five wins, three draws, and eight losses.

The victory in Bangladesh places Singapore at the top of their Asian Cup qualifying group based on goals scored, ahead of Hong Kong (four points), Bangladesh, and India, who each have one point.Only the group winners will qualify for the 2027 Asian cup.

Ogura’s decision to step down in June allows FAS ample time to prepare for the crucial upcoming qualifiers against India in October.

The former Japan national assistant coach expressed no regrets about his time in Singapore, highlighting the Asean Championship semi-final run with a primarily local-based squad as another source of pride, especially the 0-0 draw against Malaysia.

It marked only the second time as their 2012 title win that the Lions had reached the semi-finals.

He hopes fans will continue to support the team, emphasizing their motivational impact. An open training session was held before the 3-1 friendly win over the Maldives on June 5, attracting around 100 fans to Bishan Stadium.

“When the fans are watching, players are extra motivated. Players also understood their obligation.”

Ogura said: “When the fans are watching, players are extra motivated. Players also understood their responsibility. I hope more people go to the stadiums too. Everyone will remember the (AFC Champions League Two) final, we need (more of) that atmosphere and players will be more motivated.”

As he prepares to return to Chiba,known for its Disney parks,Ogura,who has developed a fondness for local dishes like chicken rice and laksa,will continue to follow Singapore football.

He said: “I have told the players, if somebody wants to change the history, we must keep doing more to improve. With this togetherness in the team, they can make history (by qualifying for the Asian Cup). But we need more people to believe, more people need to support the SPL teams, the national team and then you can have more funding.”

“look at Uzbekistan and Jordan, they have qualified for the World Cup for the first time. Ten years ago, how many people believed that can happen? If Uzbekistan can do it, why can’t Singapore? I believe they can.”