Singapore pushes ahead with goal of 2027 Asian Cup qualification with Ikhsan Fandi’s return

SINGAPORE: Singapore’s Asian Cup qualifying campaign is getting a boost with the return of striker Ikhsan Fandi to the national football team.

The 26-year-old player from Thai League 1 side BG Pathum United, who was absent from the Lions for about a year because of injuries and club commitments, said he is eager to make up for lost time.

Ikhsan, who has scored 18 goals in 38 appearances for the national team, told CNA he is happy to lead the attack in the absence of fellow striker Shawal Anuar.

"I haven't been here for a while, so I hope the chemistry is still there with the team, but I'm very excited, and I'm going to give everything I've got, because I think I've been missing the feeling of getting my name on the score sheet for Singapore,” he said.

Ikhsan added that he is looking forward to playing alongside his brother Ilhan again, who he described as a more creative and expressive player.

“(Ilhan) has a good eye for the final pass, so I hope he can provide me with some assists,” he said, ahead of a sold-out friendly match against the Maldives that will be held on Thursday (Jun 5).

The game at Bishan Stadium is part of preparations for the team’s Asian Cup qualifying match against Bangladesh next Tuesday.

The Lions are in Group C of the qualifiers, along with Bangladesh, Hong Kong, and India.

All four teams are tied on one point with five matches to go. Only the top team will qualify for the 2027 Asian Cup that will be held in Saudi Arabia.

Singapore, currently ranked 161st in the FIFA rankings, has never qualified for the Asian Cup on merit, with the Lions’ only appearance coming as hosts in 1984.

National football team coach Tsutomu Ogura said he is demanding better concentration and work rate from his team as they prepare