FAS president Forrest Li announces S$2 million Lions payout after historic Asian Cup qualification

SINGAPORE: The Singapore men's national football team returned home to a heroes’ welcome on Wednesday (Nov 19), buoyed by their historic Asian Cup qualification and the announcement of a substantial financial reward for their achievement.

The Lions made national sporting history at Kai Tak Stadium on Tuesday after beating Hong Kong 2-1 to qualify for the Asian Cup, the first time the Singapore national team has done so on merit.

FAS president Forrest Li said the team has done well and will receive around S$2 million (US$1.53 million) for their achievement in Hong Kong.

“Our entire team well-deserved it,” said Li. “If you are a good footballer, you make the contribution to the country, you bring the pride and the joy back to all the Singaporeans, you deserve it, and you should be rewarded.”

Amid a sea of fans decked out in red at Changi Airport Terminal 2, more than 100 supporters showed up to cheer the Lions as they exited the arrival gate, led by team captain Hariss Harun and Li.

“Thank you,” said Hariss to the crowd of cheering supporters, many of whom were eagerly holding jerseys to be signed and filming the Lions on home soil for the first time since their win.

Fans also delivered a full-throated rendition of "Happy Birthday" for the skipper, who turned 35.

Entering the arrival hall, Harris made a beeline for his three children and gave them a tight hug before speaking to the media.

He thanked the fans again, this time for sticking with the team through the "highs and lows".

"It's about time we gave back something," he said to reporters. "Each and every one stepped in the team to do their part and it was a wonderful story to get us to the Asian Cup."

"I always believe there's a fire burning despite all the negativity,