Lions' Malaysia mauling a ‘reality check’ ahead of Asian Cup, fans need to be realistic, say observers
The Singapore national football team, known as the Lions, faces criticism following a 6-0 loss to Malaysia in the FIFA ASEAN Cup. Observers and fan groups have called the performance unacceptable, urging the team to improve ahead of the upcoming AFC Asian Cup.
Why it matters
The result highlights the volatility of regional football performance and the pressure on national teams to maintain consistency in major tournaments.
Thursday’s 6-0 loss was the culmination of a FIFA ASEAN Cup performance which proved a stark contrast to the team’s showing at the ASEAN Hyundai Cup earlier this year, where it made the semi-finals and also broke a 14-year winless run against giants Thailand.
The Lions during the FIFA ASEAN Cup Group A match against Malaysia at the Si Jalak Harupat Stadium in Bandung, Indonesia, on Oct 1, 2026. (Photo: Football Association of Singapore)
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