| Fadhil Yunus |
SINGAPORE opened their ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) Suzuki Cup 2018 campaign with a stylish 1-0 win over Indonesia in Group ‘B’ at the National Stadium last night.
The Lions lie in second place behind Thailand, who thumped Timor Leste 7-0 with six goals coming from Adisak Kraison.
The Merah Putih enjoyed 68 per cent of the possession in the first half but the hosts fashioned the chances with four attempts compared to their opponents’ one.
And Singapore, backed by a strong 30,783 crowd, nearly grabbed the lead after midfielder Yasir Hanapi shot straight at Indonesia’s goalkeeper Andritany Ardhiyasa.
It was head coach’s Fandi Ahmad first competitive start as head coach of the national team since taking over the role earlier this year and Singapore looked promising with their attacks.
Singapore opened the breakthrough in the 37th minute after Hariss Harun connected a good ball from Gabriel Quak much to the delight of the home fans.
Faris Ramli missed two chances to double the lead first by hitting his shot straight at Ardhiyasa before his lob cleared the bar.
In the second half, the Indonesians again controlled the game with 67 per cent of the possession but the home side continued knocking their door with a flurry of attempts.
The visitors were reduced to 10 men after Putu Gede Juni Antara was sent off for a second bookable offence as Singapore held firm to see off the game with a fine win.
Singapore, who won the tournaments four times, will take on the Philippines in their next Group ‘B’ game away in Bacolod. They will play Timor Leste at the National Stadium on November 21 before concluding their group stage play against Thailand on November 25 at the Rajamangala Stadium in Bangkok.