Saturday 30 May 2015

Football Vietnam vs Malaysia 2 Jun (Bishan Stadium) | 28th SEA Games Singapore 2015 LIVE STREAMING



Football Vietnam vs Malaysia 2 Jun (Bishan Stadium) | 28th SEA Games Singapore 2015 LIVE STREAMING
2nd June 2015, Tuesday
8.30pm, Local Time(+8GMT)

Football 2 Jun Myanmar vs Indonesia (Jalan Besar Stadium) | 28th SEA Games Singapore 2015 LIVE STREAMING



Football 2 Jun Myanmar vs Indonesia (Jalan Besar Stadium) | 28th SEA Games Singapore 2015 LIVE STREAMING

2nd June 2015, Tuesday
8.30PM Local Time(+8GMT)

Football Philippines vs Singapore 1 June (Jalan Besar Stadium) | 28th SEA Games Singapore 2015 LIVE STREAMING



Football Philippines vs Singapore 1 June (Jalan Besar Stadium) | 28th SEA Games Singapore 2015 LIVE STREAMING

1 June 2015, Monday
8.30PM Local Time(+8GMT)

28th SEA Games Singapore 2015 | Football Thailand vs Timor-Leste 1 June (Bishan Stadium) LIVE STEAMING



28th SEA Games Singapore 2015 | Football Thailand vs Timor-Leste 1 June (Bishan Stadium) LIVE STEAMING

1st June 2015, Monday
8.30PM Local Time(+8GMT)

Football Brunei vs Laos 31 May (Bishan Stadium) | 28th SEA Games Singapore 2015 LIVE STREAMING



Football Brunei vs Laos 31 May (Bishan Stadium) | 28th SEA Games Singapore 2015 LIVE STREAMING

31st May 2015, Sunday
8.30PM Local Time(+8GMT)

28th SEA Games Singapore 2015 | Football Malaysia vs Timor-Leste 30 May (Bishan Stadium) LIVE STREAMING



Football Malaysia vs Timor-Leste 30 May Preliminary round of 28th SEA Games Singapore 2015 (30 May 2015)
30th May 2015, SATURDAY
8.30PM LOCAL TIME(+8 GMT)

Sunday 24 May 2015

Malaysian FA Cup FINAL: Kelantan FA 1-3 LionsXII FULL Match Highlights!

Photo: Football Association of Singapore

FULL TIME:

LionsXII are the Malaysian FA Cup Champions!!!


LionsXII 3-1 Kelantan FA
6' Faris Ramli
83' Sahil Suhaimi
90+2' Sahil Suhaimi(pen)

All 3 goals comes from Singapore SEA GAMES PLAYERS!

‪#‎LionsXII‬ ‪#‎PialaFA2015‬ ‪#‎SGfootball‬




Match Report:


Malaysian FA Cup Final | Kelantan 1-3 LionsXII | Singaporeans snatch first ever FA Cup

By Mark Dawson(Goal.com)

Photo: asiana.my

Despite being under pressure for much of the game, Lions XII struck two late goals to snatch their first ever FA Cup

The Singaporean team shocked the large pro-Kelantan crowd with a goal out of nowhere on seven minutes. There seemed little danger when Izzdin Shafiq picked up the ball within his own half, but he put a piercing ball behind the Kelantan right-back and centre-half which Faris Ramli scampered onto in a flash. Khairul Fahmi was forced to leave his line and try and close down Ramli, who in turn rounded the keeper and slotted home cooly.

However this goal was not a sign of things to come, as for the remainder of the first half it was a tide of red as Kelantan pressed hard to get back into the game. Five minutes after the equaliser and Wan Zack Haikul who got behind the Lions defence, but his firm shot across goal was well saved by Izwan Mahbud.

The Red Warriors foreign strikeforce of Erwin Carillo and Gilmar were beginning to make their mark on the game, and Carillo had a fine chance to level on the 25 minute mark. While the striker may have been guilty of pushing Nazul Nazari in the build-up, after this he skillfully sidestepped defender Madhu Mohana to find himself one on one with Mahbud who saved brilliantly with his legs.

With Kelantan firmly on top and Lions unable to keep the ball, it was again Wan Zack and Carillo who again linked up on the half hour mark, with the winger getting to the byline and cutting back for the Columbian whose shot was desperately blocked on the line by Nazul Nazari. Five minutes after this it was the turn of Gilmar to come close, as he missed from eight yards after Lions made a mess of clearing a bouncing ball in their area.

Although Lions XII were able to see out the last ten minutes of the first half with little fuss, as soon as the second half got underway they again found their backs against the ball. Mahbud had to be quick of his line on 50 minutes to foil Carillo, who had been played in by Gilmar, while ten minutes after this Nazul Nazari was again the man between Carillo and the goal when he intercepted Gilmar’s dangerous ball across goal.

But the Singaporean team could not hold out forever, and on 62 minutes the richly deserved equaliser came. Gilmar was given far too much time and space to bring a ball down on his chest and turn, and his through ball was met by the tireless Wan Zack who poked home ahead of Mahbud. Soon after the equaliser, Carillo came close to the goal he deserved with a blistering shot from 25 yards, which despite having good power, was straight at Mahbud who parried over.

Even though Lions somewhat rebounded after the goal, having more of the ball than in the previous hour, it was still Kelantan who looked to be heading to victory, especially with the powerful Iwuji Amachi being introduced from the bench and many Singaporean players dropping due to cramp and injury.

However on 81 minutes the stadium was stunned as Lions again took the lead, this time through substitute Sahil Suhaimi. The goal came from a poor mistake from Nik Shahrul, who under no pressure executed a sloppy pass giving the ball straight to Suhaimi ,who drove forward past Amirizwan Taj before firing low past a flailing Khairul Fahmi.

Depsite Gilmar again going close with a curling effort on 89 minutes, it was Lions who amazingly wrapped up the game in stoppage time after Amirizwan clumsily felled Sahil Suhaimi as the two chased a long ball into the Kelantan area. Suhaimi dusted himself off to send Fahmi the wrong way and secure Lions first ever Malaysia FA Cup title.

Saturday 23 May 2015

Super sub Sahil Suhaimi inspires LionsXII to win first Malaysia FA Cup

By Kelvin Leong(ESPN)

Substitute forward Sahil Suhaimi's second half brace proved decisive for LionsXII. Photo credit: Football Association of Singapore

LionsXII forward Sahil Suhaimi came off the bench to score a late brace in a 3-1 victory over Kelantan FA to help the Singapore side win the Malaysia FA Cup for the first time at the Bukit Jalil Stadium on Saturday night.

Suhaimi edged LionsXII ahead 2-1 in the 80th minute before putting the game beyond reach when he converted a penalty in added time.

Like most Cup finals, both teams started the game in cagey fashion but it did not take long for LionsXII to bulge goalkeeper Khairul Fahmi Che Mat's net.

Right-back Nik Shahrul Azim was caught out by Izzdin Shafiq's majestic through ball in the seventh minute to find Faris Ramli, who rounded Fahmi before slotting into an empty net.

Five minutes later, Kelantan almost drew level when Wan Zack Haikal beat the offside trap but Izwan Mahbud stuck out a leg to push it out for a corner.

It was all Kelantan at that point with Gilmar da Silva and Erwin Carrillo calling the shots in attack.

The giant Brazilian hitman found space in the 17th minute but could only rifle his shot into the Kelantan crowd behind the goal.

Azraai Khor's team had two magnificent opportunities in the 25th and 26th minutes to level the game, but Izwan and right-back Nazrul Nazari stood tall to deny them.

Gilmar combined with Carrillo but after doing the hard work to get past Madhu Mohana, the latter was up in arms as Izwan stuck out a leg to push the ball away.

Barely a minute later, Wan Zack's cut-back found Carrillo whose shot was brilliantly blocked by Nazrul to maintain LionsXII's one-nil advantage.

The visitors finally carved out another opportunity in the 34th minute when some fine work from Faris allowed Khairul Amri to angle his shot just wide off the left post.

Pressure was back on Izwan's goal from the restart when Carrillo's knock-down left Gilmar all the time in the world, only to see the forward drill his effort narrowly wide.

The second half continued in the same vein, with Kelantan dominating possession, and Wan Zack beginning to influence the game more.

Midfielder Wan Zack Haikal raised Kelantan hopes by scoring the equaliser in the second half. Photo credit: Asiana.my

It was Carrillo and Gilmar who carried the greatest threat with the Colombian breaking free in the 52nd minute. But man-of-the-match Izwan came up with another save to halt him in his tracks. Gilmar skied the subsequent corner as the momentum continued to go the way of the Red Warriors.

Kelantan's efforts finally paid off in the 63rd minute when a Gilmar through ball found Wan Zack who poked it past a charging Izwan to level the scores at 1-1 and send the sea of red into a mad frenzy.

Sensing a turning of the tide, the Red Warriors went for broke and almost fashioned a second goal two minutes later when Carrillo's 20-yard rocket was tipped over by a leaping Izwan.

Azraai Khor made a bold move by bringing on another attacker in Farhan Mohamad on 71 minutes for holding midfielder Norhafiz Zamani. The substitute made an instant impact when he rattled the post with a scorcher two minutes later.

Just when the game looked to be heading into extra-time, Sahil Suhaimi -- who came on in the 58th minute for Khairul Nizam -- went on a mazy run in the 82nd minute after stealing the ball from Nik Shahrul. He cut in and fired a peach of a shot past a stranded Fahmi Che Mat to give the LionsXII a shock 2-1 lead.

Midfielder Faris Ramli opened the scoring in the first half for LionsXII in their 3-1 win against Kelantan in the Malaysia FA Cup final. Photo credit: Football Association of Singapore

Try as they might but Kelantan could not come up with a second equaliser.

It was Sahil who made it 3-1 from the penalty spot in the first minute of extra-time after being brought down by Amirizwan Taj Tajuddin.

Referee Zanzaudu Katimin took little time to blow the final whistle to give LionsXII their first ever Malaysia FA Cup title. This is the Singapore outfit's second piece of silverware, to go with their 2013 Malaysian Super League title.

Kelantan:
Khairul Fahmi Che Mat, Zairul Fitree Ishak, Jon McKain, Amirizdwan Taj Tajuddin, Noor Hazrul, Norhafiz Zamani Misbah (Farhan Mohamad 71'), Badhri Radzi (C), Wan Zaharulnizam Zakaria, Wan Zack Haikal (Austin Amutu 74'), Erwin Carrillo, Gilmar Da Silva

LionsXII: Izwan Mahbud (GK) (C), Hafiz Sujad, Madhu Mohana, Zulfahmi Arifin, Nazrul Nazari, Izzdin Shafiq, Safuwan Baharudin, Gabriel Quak (Christopher Van Huizen 88'), Faris Ramli, Khairul Amri (Firdaus Kasman 80'), Khairul Nizam (Sahil Suhaimi 58')

Why Safuwan Baharudin can hit the big time at Bukit Jalil Stadium

By Neil Humreys(Four Four Two)


Neil Humphreys believes the Malaysia FA Cup final represents a chance for returning LionsXII player Safuwan Baharudin to crossover and become a real mainstream star...

Safuwan Baharudin has already dipped a toe in the water. Now he’s ready to swim in the mainstream. Saturday’s date at the Bukit Jalil Stadium represents a real opportunity to break out from the back pages and make a dash for the front.

The Malaysia FA Cup final is his crossover moment. No successful performer can sustain a healthy career without one.

As it stands, in musical terms, Safuwan is a respected indie artist, with three notable highpoints already on his resume – the Suzuki Cup, the Malaysian Super League and a solid stint in the A-League with Melbourne City.



The last one was pivotal, leaving him on the brink. When he scored against Adelaide United in February, he became more than Singapore’s first footballer to score Down Under. He became the nation’s first social media footballer.

Melbourne’s big brother - Manchester City - sent out a congratulatory tweet praising his goal. Almost overnight, Safuwan’s name was briefly familiar to millions, tweeted and shared by the pale blue multitudes.

He reached more global followers than any sporting Singaporean in social media’s short history.

But it wasn’t quite enough at home. Through no fault of his own, Safuwan remained on the periphery, an unlucky footballer handicapped by bad timing. He’s hitting a peak when his profession is stuck in a trough.

The 23-year-old remains the biggest fish in an ever-shrinking pond, the main man in a sport followed by a dwindling minority. Beyond the smallish bubble of the LionsXII and the senior national side, Safuwan’s name probably isn’t on the tip of the average Singaporean’s tongue.

He’s still waiting for his crossover moment.

Whether it’s David Beckham’s looping effort from the halfway line against Wimbledon, Wayne Rooney’s thumping strike against Arsenal or Fandi Ahmad’s finish against Inter Milan, there is usually a turning point, a clear transition from vague awareness to nationwide brand, from base camp to summit.

And Singapore football could certainly use a household name. With a bit of luck, they may pop up like proverbial buses. After waiting in vain, two could come along at once in Safuwan at the Malaysian FA Cup Final and then Irfan Fandi at the upcoming SEA Games.

Their timing could not be more propitious.


Passing on the baton

The S.League continues to trumpet its development plans to drown out the faint death knell that ominously chimes in the background. The senior squads chalked up some woeful results and the LionsXII’s unexpected run to Saturday’s final helped to draw a veil over several poor league performances.

Singapore’s winter of discontent may slowly dissipate if Safuwan maintains that spring in his step. He’s a new hope after so much despair. And it only takes one.

Every generation needs at least one to collect the baton from a predecessor and pass it forward. But there hasn’t really been anyone since Alexandar Duric retired, no footballer who has quite stretched beyond the game’s cocoon and into the national consciousness.

That’s the true litmus test for a crossover footballer in Singapore. If his name filters through the social funnel and spills across school playgrounds, coffee shops and even Raffles Place smoothie bars, then he’s extended his sphere of influence. He’s taken the local game beyond its traditional borders.

After a training session this week, the Lions XII received pep talks from several stars of the 1994 Dream Team. The symbolism was obvious. The Dream Team were Singapore’s last crossover side, where almost every member was a household name.

They didn’t just make the mainstream. They owned the mainstream.

In the current climate, that’s probably too much too ask for. Besides, one is enough for now. Just as every Grammy Awards requires a breakthrough artist, Singapore football needs a Safuwan Baharudin.

And he stands ready, baton in hand.

The 23-year-old returned from Australia a different footballer, a harder footballer. He acclimatised to the cauldrons of Melbourne, Sydney and Adelaide and now plays at white heat. His colossal contribution in his first game back – the 2-1 first-leg win over Terengganu – left Fandi showering him in superlatives.


Wise beyond his years, Safuwan is a quick study in possession, reading the play like a quarterback, comfortable on the ball, always unhurried. His midfield partnership with Izzdin Shafiq mirrors his defensive relationship with Baihakki Khaizan when they won the 2013 Malaysia Super League: coherent, coordinated and rarely flustered.

Safuwan proves that “utility” isn’t necessarily a dirty word. He changes positions because he excels in most positions, not because he’s a master of none.

Fandi knows what Safuwan brings to the LionsXII. So do his team-mates, their supporters, the Football Association of Singapore and even Melbourne City.

He’s primed now for the next step. A rare sporting talent is potentially just a game away from becoming a national icon.

As the familiar faces of the Dream Team demonstrate, Singaporean cup success in Malaysia offers a direct window into the mainstream.

At Bukit Jalil, Safuwan can break on through to the other side.

Source: http://www.fourfourtwo.com/sg/features/why-safuwan-can-hit-big-time-bukit-jalil#w0Wv8OpSPhch3tGj.99

Safuwan warns mates to be mentally prepared in Cup final

BY JOASH EE DE SILVA(The Star)

Safuwan (left) in one of the experienced hands in Lions XII set-up in the FA Cup final against Kelantan on Saturday. Photo: Melbourne City

PETALING JAYA: Don’t be overcome by stage fright.

Singapore Lions XII’s seasoned campaigner Safuwan Baharudin wants his team-mates to be mentally prepared to deal with the bumper 100,000-capacity crowd expected for the FA Cup final against Kelantan at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on Saturday.

“We must not let the crowd get to us,” warned Safuwan upon the team’s arrival at a leading hotel in Seri Kembangan on Thursday.

The 23-year-old Safuwan, with more than 50 caps for Singapore, said that the players should be prepared for the electrifying atmosphere.


“It’s a big occasion for the young players and they must learn to stay calm. The important thing is not to be intimidated by the fans. Once you lose focus, it will lead to mistakes and it will affect your game,” said Safuwan.

The defensive midfielder returned from a three-month loan at A-League side Melbourne City in April after scoring two goals in six appearances for the club. He was forced to cut short the stint due to injury last month.

Safuwan made his debut for Lions XII in the hotly-disputed FA Cup semi-final return-leg clash against Terengganu at the Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin Stadium in Gong Badak last Saturday. Terengganu won 3-2 for a 4-4 aggregate but Lions XII advanced on the away goals rule.

Lions XII coach Fandi Ahmad will take advantage of Safuwan’s vast experience to put the shackles on Kelantan’s attacking trio of Austin Amutu of Nigeria, Erwin Carrillo of Colombia and national striker Mohd Norfarhan Mohd.

Safuwan expects the final to be a close affair.

“I’ve played against Kelantan for the last four years ... I know their strengths and weaknesses. It’ll be 50-50 ... it depends on who wants it more,” he said.

Malaysia FA Cup final: Fandi vows to surprise Cup specialists Kelantan

By Kelvin Leong(ESPN)

Head coach Fandi Ahmad is ready to spring a surprise by going on the attack when LionsXII take on Kelantan in the 2015 Malaysia FA Cup final at the Bukit Jalil Stadium on Saturday night.

Kelantan's new forwards, comprising of Nigerian Austin Amutu and Brazilian import Gilmar Jose da Silva Filho, have been a revelation since they joined the Red Warriors during the April transfer window, replacing Isaac Pupo and Emmanuel Kenmogne.

In less than a month, they have scored five times between them, while helping Colombian striker Erwin Carrillo to an impressive five goal tally since their arrival.

While fans are expecting LionsXII to continue their renowned counter attacking game away from home, head coach Fandi stunned the pre-match media conference when he hinted at a change of tactics to outsmart Kelantan with an offensive style of football.

He said: "The (Kelantan) attackers are dangerous and the wingers are good like Wan [Zahrulnizam] Zakaria, [Wan Hack] Haikal and their three foreign players. The danger for us is if we give them too much space and time. Thus, we will try to stop it from happening before we start.

"Best form of defence is attack first. We will do something different. Hopefully, we can surprise everyone and come (out) as victors."

LionsXII coach Fandi Ahmad said his team would attack Kelantan in the Malaysia FA Cup final on Saturday night. Photo credit: Football Association of Singapore

The Singapore legend was also quick to underline his team's status as outsiders and is hoping the match will be settled in normal time, without the much dreaded penalty shoot-out.

"We feel proud that we managed to enter the final," he said.

"I hope we can hype up the atmosphere, and we will play hard. We know that many feel that we are the underdogs because the Kelantan team have more experience than us. They have entered the FA Cup final a couple of times. However, we have to keep striving till the last minute. Hopefully, there will not be any penalty kicks."

One player who agrees with his coach's philosophy of giving their all until the very last minute is defensive rock Madhu Mohana.

He said: "I'll just give 100 percent like every other game and stick to the game plan. As defenders, keeping a clean sheet is like scoring a goal. We will do our best to protect our goal although we know its going to be very tough against Kelantan's top strike force."

The presence of Amutu and Gilmar alongside Carrillo, could spell trouble for Madhu and his defensive partner Zulfahmi Arifin. But the Singapore international believes that his teammates are used to handling top imports on a weekly basis.

LionsXII defender Madhu Mohana said his team are not perturbed by the presence of Kelantan's foreign import strikers. Photo credit: Football Association of Singapore.

He said: "I think every other Malaysian team has good foreign strikers and we have been going up against them every week. We shouldn't be nervous or afraid at all. The key is to help each other out, double team the foreigners like we have been doing and I hope we can bring the same mentality to this match."

This is the LionsXII's first ever Malaysia FA Cup final in their four year history. Kelantan have made the final on four occasions in the last six years, winning it in back to back in 2012 and 2013.

Coupled with the LionsXII's unavailability to participate in AFC competitions and by virtue of being finalists in the FA Cup, Kelantan are guaranteed a spot in the 2016 AFC Cup qualifying playoff.

Malaysia FA Cup final: Seasoned Red Warriors ready for LionsXII rookies

By Dez Corkhill(ESPN)

The first major trophy of the Malaysian football season is up for grabs on Saturday as LionsXII from Singapore and Kelantan meet at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil. Both clubs upset the form book in dramatic fashion in the semifinals to book their places in the showpiece. For Kelantan, it will be their eighth big Kuala Lumpur final since 2009, compared to the Singapore team's first ever FA Cup final appearance.

Here are three thoughts on the 26th Malaysia FA Cup final:

1. Amazing Austin

Kelantan's Nigerian striker Iwuji Augustine Amamchi -- better known as Austin Amutu -- almost single-handedly propelled Kelantan past defending champions, Pahang, in last weekend's semifinal second leg.

Kelantan beat Pahang in the semifinal to seal a place in the showpiece event this weekend against LionsXII. Photo credit: Asiana.my

Introduced to the game as an impact substitute, 22-year-old Amutu couldn't have made a bigger impression. Brought on as a replacement for Badri Radzi, the 6-foot-1 striker scored twice in the last 15 minutes to send Kota Bahru into a frenzy. His first goal was all about raw power and a venomous shot with his right foot whilst his second -- in injury time -- was a mazy dribble followed by a calculated left-footed finish.

Amutu is the latest in a succession of power forward imports at Kelantan. Used to the free-scoring exploits of Mohammed Ghaddar, Dickson Nwakaeme and Francis Forkey Doe, Red Warriors fans have been critical of the signings -- and lack of goals -- from Prince Tagoe and Emmanuel Kenmongne. That means that Amutu is under more scrutiny than usual. His debut goal against Johor Darul Ta'zim and the late double in the semifinal already have him marked down as a Kelantan hero-in-waiting.

2. LionsXII's Mr Versatile

Zulfahmi Arifin is the reluctant centre-back who has made such a good job of his temporary role that he has become one of the first players picked by Fandi Ahmad.

Better known as a cultured left-footed midfielder, 23-year-old Zulfahmi was often criticised for not making more of his ability in the centre of the park. When LionsXII faced a defensive crisis with an injury to regular centre back Afiq Yunos -- and Safuwan Baharuddin's loan to Melbourne City in the A-League -- Zul earned the role in the heart of the LionsXII defence ahead of Wahyudi Wahid because of his height (he's 5-foot-10).

Zulfahmi Arifin has proved to be a good partner for defender Madhu Mohana in the LionsXII defence. Photo credit: LionsXII

Now, even though Safuwan is back from his loan spell, Zul has retained his place at centre-back, with Safuwan moving to central midfield. His positional sense and tackling ability have helped create a reliable partnership with Madhu Mohanna. And his ability to play from the back and pick out accurate 60-yard diagonal passes have been pivotal in LionsXII improved form over the past two months.

He remains adamant that his best position is in central midfield. But for Saturday's final, how Zul and Madhu cope with Kelantan's powerful forward line may well decide the destination of the Cup.

3. Scrutiny on security

Following the trouble that followed last weekend's semifinal in Kuala Terengganu after the home side had a late goal disallowed against LionsXII, there will be an enhanced police and security presence for the final. Kelantan are expected to have in excess of 60,000 fans at the stadium and they are certain to be at the venue early, having made the long trip down from the distant northeastern state.

About 30 buses of Singapore fans are expected to make the trip up to Kuala Lumpur for the final.

Bukit Jalil has suffered from security issues in the past, so the FAM and security forces will be extra keen to ensure that the match passes without incident.

Some 30 buses are also expected to make the journey from Singapore, and their fans will be segregated away from the expected Kelantan exodus. The day after the final has been declared a Kelantan state holiday, which will take some of the stress out of the return journey for the majority of supporters.

Even with the increased security measures, Kelantan fans are known to be almost fanatical in their support on the big occasion. Despite those coming up the North-South highway in numbers from Singapore, it will still feel like a Red Warriors home match as Kelantan try to win the FA Cup for the third time in four years.

With 25 years media experience, Asian commentator Dez Corkhill is a former VP of Astro Arena in Malaysia, and head of Sports Centred Media Services.

Malaysia FA Cup final: Singapore's Izwan returns to where it all started

By Kelvin Leong(ESPN)

Izwan Mahbud returns to Bukit Jalil where he launched his international career. Photo credit: Football Association of Singapore

Taking a deep breath and with slowed steps, we made our way down the tunnel, to the vibration of 90,000 stomping Malaysian fans throbbing above our heads.

It was July 2011 and the much anticipated return leg of the World Cup qualifying round in Kuala Lumpur, with Singapore holding a 5-3 advantage from the first match on home soil.

Earlier, when we boarded the team bus, the tension was culpable. As police escorts ushered our vehicle down the highway, fans decked in yellow and black were waving flags and scarves, giving us the thumbs down. A certain Aleksandar Duric lent forward to a young Izwan Mahbud and said: "No need to look outside. Focus. We are together."

Izwan nodded and stared straight ahead, replaying the tactical details that coach Radojko Avramovic and Lee Bee Seng had drilled into him during training.

Izwan Mahbud won the 2012 Suzuki Cup and 2013 MSL titles. Photo credit: Football Association of Singapore

Once at the stadium, he suited up but during the pre-match pitch inspection, he was walking slower than usual.

The sound was electrifying, banners were unfurled with Malaysian motifs and it was game on.

Izwan was chosen ahead of first choice goalkeeper Lionel Lewis and the young starlet put in a man-of-the-match performance, despite having laser flashlights shone into his eyes from the crowd.

"It was scary at first," Izwan told ESPN FC. "But I knew this was my time to shine. Lionel was not 100% fit and coach Raddy put faith in me to start, even though I only had two international caps before that. It was an atmosphere I never experienced before in my young playing career. But once the game started, all I thought about was to make sure not to let anything get past me. No time to think about anything else."

Since that fateful night at Bukit Jalil where it ended 1-1 -- 6-4 to Singapore on aggregate -- Izwan has matured beyond his years. He was part of the subsequent World Cup qualifying campaign before lifting the 2012 AFF Suzuki Cup. He also won the 2013 Malaysian Super League (MSL) title with LionsXII.

At the age of 24, he has already earned 27 caps for Singapore and was made vice-captain of LionsXII for this season.

"Everything happened very quickly." Izwan said. "After that game at Bukit Jalil, my football career just took off. And since I'm part of LionsXII, there hasn't been much downtime to look back and think. At my age, I'm just happy to play as many games as I can and continue to develop by learning from Hassan [Sunny] and my coaches like Fandi, Bee Seng and Nazri [Nasir].

"I have become a much better player in the past three seasons. Having to face big crowds in the different Malaysian states also makes me realise how important it is to keep yourself calm and not let the fans affect or distract you. Once you let the atmosphere get into your head, you lose focus and as the last line of defence, I cannot afford that."

On Saturday night, Izwan returns to the hallowed ground of Bukit Jalil as part of the LionsXII contingent for the 2015 Malaysia FA Cup final against Kelantan.

At the age of 24, Izwan Mahbud is already a veteran of the national team. Photo credit: Football Association of Singapore

At the other end of the pitch, Malaysia's national goalkeeper Khairul Fahmi Che Mat will be between the sticks for the Red Warriors so this could turn out to be a battle to see which custodian can produce the goods to lead his team to victory.

Izwan added: "Fahmi is Malaysia's top goalkeeper. He has a lot of experience and is a big game player. I've always liked his goalkeeping style and in this game. Both of us will have to deal with a lot of factors which makes it hard for a keeper.

"The noise level in the stadium makes it almost impossible for defenders to hear your commands. Knowing the Kelantan fans, it will be loud, very loud. Together with our traveling Singapore fans, communication with Madhu [Mohana] and the rest of the defenders will have to depend on hand signals. But we have played together as a team for a long time now, so we know each other's game and we can use that to our advantage."

In what will be the LionsXII's first Cup final since rejoining Malaysian domestic football in 2012, the sense of excitement has been building up on both sides of the Causeway, with more than 90,000 spectators expected to pack into Malaysia's National Stadium.

This could prove to be a daunting task for visiting Singaporeans.

"Coach Fandi asked us to go out there and enjoy the game, something I agree with," said Izwan as he removed his gloves after his final training session at Bukit Jalil.

"The pressure is there but we must also remember why we play the game. Our passion and love for football can be a motivational factor and that is a good starting point when we make our way out. Defence needs to be tight in what will be a cagey affair and our attackers must take their chances when they come. [Khairul] Amri and [Khairul] Nizam are in good form and our midfielders like Izzdin [Shafiq] and Faris [Ramli] have the ability to pick them out."

Having emerged from the 2011 encounter with his head held high, Izwan will be hoping for a euphoric return as LionsXII look to get past Azraai Khor's Red Warriors, at the same iconic venue that effectively launched his career.

"This is a Cup final, two good teams will come out trying to win," Izwan said. "Football is a funny game, you never know what is going to happen. So let's go out there, be ourselves and not worry about the crowd."

Kelvin Leong, a Singapore-based Editor for ESPN FC, is former media officer for the Singapore national team and ex-regional editor of ESPNSTAR.com.

Coaches fire first salvo before Cup final


LionsXII coach Fandi Ahmad (second from left) and Kelantan coach Azraai Khor Abdullah (second from right) TNP PHOTO: JONATHAN CHOO

BY DAVID LEE(TNP)

One thing's for sure for the Malaysian FA Cup final - both Kelantan and the LionsXII are up for the intense battle that will unfold at theBukit Jalil Stadium in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday (May 23).

At the pre-match press conference in Kuala Lumpur on Friday (May 22) afternoon, both coaches were confident of winning.

"Now that we are the last Malaysian team standing, and we are taking on a Singaporean side, a lot of pride is at stake," said Kelantan coach Azraai Khor Abdullah.

"In a way, we are representing every Malaysian team, so we want to keep the FA Cup in Malaysia."

Despite his team's rather dismal record of just one win and six losses in seven previous encounters against Kelantan, LionsXII coach Fandi Ahmad is optimistic of his team's chances.

He said: "So what if our past record is not good? We will overcome that tomorrow. We will make it happen."

Source: http://www.tnp.sg/sports/singapore-football/coaches-fire-first-salvo-cup-final#sthash.lusQdkRA.dpuf

Mum's behind you, Fandi

Semiah Ismail will be cheering son Fandi in tonight's final, just like in 1994 when he won the Malaysia Cup
BY HAIQAL SARI(TNP)

In 1994, she watched on from the stands of the Shah Alam Stadium as her son scored the fourth goal in a 4-0 rout of Pahang to win the Malaysia Cup.

Tonight, 21 years on, Semiah Ismail. 72, will once again witness her son in action in a cup final.

This time, though, Fandi Ahmad won't be tearing up the pitch as a player.

He will be patrolling the touchline as coach of the LionsXII who will meet Kelantan in the Malaysian FA Cup final at the Bukit Jalil Stadium tonight.

Semiah said: "My son has gone to plenty of places for football, be it as a player or a coach, but this is one of my proudest moments.

"My heart is already racing. I remember all those years in the past, cheering him on with thousands of other Singaporeans.

"Now he's playing the part of a coach and, although it is not the Malaysia Cup, it's still a cup final after all.

"God willing, everything goes well. He's a hard worker and, as a mother, I just want to see my son happy."

This final is also an especially poignant one for Fandi and her.

On Nov 29 last year, Ahmad Wartam, Fandi's father, passed away due to heart and lung problems.

Fandi, 52, has always credited his father as his inspiration, and Semiah said: "His father always supported him. Fandi's first pair of football boots was bought by his father. That's how much influence Ahmad had on Fandi's career.

"And now he's gone one better, to be a coach. If he wins tonight, I will have no words to express my happiness."

Semiah is part of a second batch of fans who will be ferried up north by tour operator Akbar Hashim to Kuala Lumpur for tonight's match. The first group left last night.

For many of the LionsXII fans, the team's mere presence in the final is already worth a celebration.

UNEXPECTED

"They are a team of young players, so never in my wildest dreams did I think we'd make it here," said Syed Faris, referring to his 200-strong group of fans who call themselves ExcluSinga.

"By the end of the match, the result won't matter to us. Our boys have already done us proud. What more can we ask for?"

While Akbar himself shares that sentiment, the veteran tour operator wants a win to make things all the more sweeter.

He said: "Everybody has to relay this simple message to Fandi, that a win is more than enough for Singapore in its jubilee year.

"I think we can nick it 2-1. Kelantan have a strong team, but I think the LionsXII have immeasurable hunger.

"Nobody displays that more than Khairul Amri.

"From all my years of watching the Malaysia Cup, I can tell you that it's a rarity to see a Singaporean striker score twice on an away ground.

DEMAND

"These are local boys, they're one of our own. They have their critics, but the demand for tickets has been huge.

"Why else do you think I'm bringing 30 buses up?"

As always, safety and security will be of paramount importance, especially after the violent scenes played out after last Saturday's away leg of the LionsXII's semi-final against Terengganu.

Terengganu won 3-2 on the night, but lost out on away goals as the tie ended 4-4 on aggregate.

The fans went berserk at the officials, hurled plastic chairs onto the pitch, broke glass doors in the stadium and even went as far as to torch an ambulance.

These are scenes which Akbar hopes he won't see tonight.

He said: "At the end of the day, we have to be mindful of our own actions as well."

"God willing, everything goes well. He’s a hard worker and, as a mother, I just want to see my son happy."

- Semiah Ismail, Fandi Ahmad’s mother

Things to note for travelling fans


Arrangements have been made by the local authorities in Kuala Lumpur to ensure that Singapore fans heading to the Bukit Jalil Stadium for tonight's Malaysian FA Cup final will have a safe experience.

Tour buses are to enter the stadium via the Kompleks Sukan Negara, Perbadanan Stadium Malaysia entrance.

They are to park at Car Parks D and E, from which police officers will escort the LionsXII fans into the stadium. Buses that are parked will not be allowed to leave the venue during the match.

Likewise, fans are not allowed to leave the stadium after entry, until after the game.

The police has also advised the LionsXII fans to enter the stadium using the blue turnstiles.

A section of the stadium will be reserved for LionsXII fans.

Source: http://www.tnp.sg/sports/singapore-football/mums-behind-you-fandi#sthash.oa0jjy4m.dpuf

Friday 22 May 2015

Faris and Sahil back with the LionsXII for FA Cup Final


HISTORIC: Sahil Suhaimi (above) and Faris Ramli will be playing in their first final. PHOTO: COURTESY OF SNOC

Faris and Sahil make timely return to boost LionsXII's attack

BY HAIQAL SARI(TNP)

For Faris Ramli and Sahil Suhaimi, the South-east Asia (SEA) Games can wait.

A more urgent task awaits them - beating Kelantan in the Malaysian FA Cup final at the Bukit Jalil Stadium tomorrow.

The duo, together with Christopher van Huizen and Faris Azienuddin, re-joined the LionsXII after going on a training trip to Japan last week, as part of the national Under-23 side's preparations for next month's SEA Games.

Much is at stake for Faris and Sahil as they prepare for the biggest night of their football careers.

The LionsXII are the first Singaporean team since coach Fandi Ahmad led the Dream Team of 1994 to victory in the Malaysia Cup final at the Shah Alam Stadium.

Victory over Kelantan in Kuala Lumpur will also see Faris and Sahil pick up their first senior competitive titles.

Sahil, 22, said: "Wow, I'm still trying to digest the fact that we're making history.

"It's a funny feeling, actually. I'm scared, nervous and happy all at the same time.

"There's a lot at stake at Bukit Jalil, so we just have to make sure we don't crumble under the weight of our own history.

"This will be the first Cup final for Faris and me. We get through 90 minutes, and we'll have something on our shelves at home."

Faris, though, cautioned against looking too far ahead lest it becomes a distraction.

A win, he said, will go some way towards placating the detractors.

Said the 22-year-old: "It's great to know that we can make history, but honestly, I prefer not to look at it that way.

"It can only weigh us down if we keep obsessing over it. But we know this is a huge step, a final step.

"We want to make things right. We have our critics, and people who just don't want us to succeed.

"So, when we step out on the pitch, there's going to be only one thing on our minds: Do it for the fans. God willing, everything else will fall into place."

The pair scored a combined total of three goals in the Cup, but they missed the dramatic second leg of the semi-finals against Terengganu last week as they were in Japan.

WANTED MEN

In fact, the tug-of-war between Fandi Ahmad's LionsXII and Aide Iskandar's Young Lions for their services has been going on all season.

But Faris, who is expected to start the final, believes that the situation works to their benefit.

"I wouldn't say that I wasn't a little annoyed when I first had to deal with the changing of teams during the season," he said.

"But that's how life is. It's all about making sacrifices. All the coaches and former players who have spoken to me have told me to just give in, and after a while I realised that you just have to be there for whichever team that need you the most.

"Fatigue has been a huge issue of course. But we're technically in pre-season for the SEA Games, and it's a boost for Sahil and I because we have been actually playing competitively at high levels.

"We've spent the past few months giving our all on both sides, and it's aiding our development and making us better players.

"This is brilliant for us."

Source: http://www.tnp.sg/sports/team-singapore/faris-and-sahil-back-lionsxii-fa-cup-final#sthash.RX7JWp9z.dpuf

Malaysia FA Cup final: LionsXII aren't practising penalties, says Fandi Ahmad

BY ESPN STAFF(ESPN)

LionsXII haven't been practising penalty kicks ahead of Saturday's Malaysia FA Cup final, according to head coach Fandi Ahmad.

The Singapore outfit will be underdogs at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium when they face two-time winners Kelantan, who are appearing in their fifth FA Cup final in just seven years. It's the first time LionsXII have made the FA Cup decider.

Extra time and a penalty shoot out will be played if regular time ends in a stalemate. But Fandi says he is treating the match like any other big game. He predicts that the game will be won or lost within regulation time, in front of a crowd of more than 90,000 in Kuala Lumpur.

The last major final -- last November's Malaysia Cup decider between Pahang and Johor Darul Ta'zim (JDT) -- went to penalty kicks after it was 2-2 at the end of extra time. Pahang, who were knocked out by Kelantan in the semfinals of this year's Malaysia FA Cup last week, prevailed 5-3 in the shoot out.

"They are fighters and they will fight for 95 minutes (or longer)," Fandi told The Straits Times. "No, we haven't practised penalties because the games will be over in 95 minutes."

Head coach Fandi Ahmad won five Malaysia Cups with three different sides during his storied playing career. Photo credit: FAS

52-year-old Fandi, who won five Malaysia Cups with three different sides including two with Singapore, added that the match was his most important in charge of LionsXII.

"This game is definitely the biggest for us so far," he said. "It's a big thing for us, especially the players. They have to show a lot of composure and show that they can take the pressure."

LionsXII utility player Safuwan Bahaurdin, who returned earlier this month from a three month loan spell with A-League club Melbourne City, said he couldn't wait for kickoff.

"The Suzuki Cup final and my Melbourne debut (against Melbourne Victory in front of 40,000 fans) are moments that I will always remember. But this is a final and another chance to win a trophy."

LionsXII are 2013 Malaysia Super League (MSL) champions but have never played in a major Cup final. Kelantan last won the Malaysia FA Cup in 2013 under Croatian Bojan Hodak.

But the Singapore side sit above Kelantan on the MSL table. Kelantan are 10th, just one point above the relegation zone, while LionsXII are three points above them in eighth spot.

Source: http://www.espnfc.com.ng/blog/football-asia/153/post/2461186/malaysia-fa-cup-final-lionsxii-arent-practising-penalties,

The FourFourTwo Preview | Kelantan FA vs LionsXII


Malaysia FA Cup | Bukit Jalil Stadium | Sat 23 May | 8.45pm

Billed as


Cup final veterans vs first timers.

The lowdown

So everything comes down to this – a showpiece final at the majestic 90,000-seater Bukit Jalil Stadium to decide who picks up the first major piece of silverware in Malaysian football this year.

There’s one thing very un-Malaysian about this season’s FA Cup Final though – for the first time in the 26-year history of the competition, there’s a Singaporean team who have made it this far and it is the LionsXII who will be hoping to upset the odds.

This competition had proved to be a stumbling block for the developmental outfit since their inception in 2012, having not made it anywhere further than the quarter-finals. However history is set to be rewritten this term.

The LionsXII's run to the final saw them dispatch PB Melayu Kedah and KL SPA Putrajaya without much sweat, before cruising past Johor Darul Ta’zim II over 180 minutes in the quarter-finals.

The first real test came in the semi-finals against Terengganu FA, where they held a slender 2-1 lead going into the second leg at the newly-refurbished Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin Stadium. Khairul Amri twice gave them the lead on the night, but they were pegged back on both occasions through Paulo Rangel.

Norshahrul Idlan Talaha then scored to level the tie on aggregate before Nordin Alias nodded in what the Turtles thought would be the winning goal. However their celebrations were cut short by the linesman’s offside flag as the LionsXII hung on to progress via the away goals rule.

Surviving that battle of nerves in Kuala Terengganu should stand them in good stead for the final, where they are arguably underdogs against Kelantan FA, winners in 2012 and 2013.

It would not be an exaggeration to describe them as veterans of major cup finals. In the last seven years, they have reached eight finals and won four of them. Adding to their pair of FA Cups are Malaysia Cups in 2010 and 2012. But if there's some hope for their opponents, it's that they were also on the losing end in the 2009 and 2011 FA Cup finals, as well as the 2009 and 2013 Malaysia Cup finals.

While it has not been smooth-sailing for the Red Warriors in the league this season (languishing third-from-bottom after 10 games played), things are rather different when it comes to knockout competition.

Edging past Sarawak FA and Kuala Lumpur FA in the preliminary stages, they proceeded to overcome Sime Darby 4-1 over two legs in the quarter-finals. Next up was holders Pahang FA who proved to be a much tougher nut to crack than their previous three opponents.

Trailing 1-0 from the first leg, they levelled matters on aggregate briefly through Wan Zaharulnizam in the return leg in Kota Bahru but were then hit by a sucker punch by R Gopinathan in the second half.

Time seemed to be running out for Azraai Khor’s men, who now needed two goals to progress, but they simply refused to buckle. Nigerian forward Austin Amutu eventually proved to be the hero, as he took the game by the scruff of the neck with two brilliant individual strikes in the last 15 minutes to help his side progress 3-2 on aggregate.

A third FA Cup final appearance in four years also marks the remarkable turnaround of fortunes since the wily Azraai took over the coaching hot seat from George Boateng in late March. Along with the former, in came the likes of experienced centre-back Amirizdwan Taj Tajuddin, Brazilian forward Gilmar and Amutu, on loan from Nigerian outfit Warri Wolves.

The new additions seemed to have revitalized the squad; Amirizdwan have forged a good defensive screen with Jonathan McKain in front of goalkeeper Khairul Fahmi Che Mat, while Gilmar and Amutu have formed a fearsome three-pronged attack with Erwin Carrillo. The trio are responsible for half of their 20 goals in all competitions this season.

In addition, there are also the likes of local talents Badhri Razi, Wan Zaharulnizam and Wan Zack Haikal to contend with, so it looks like a long night for the LionsXII defence on Saturday night.

Team News

Just like in the past few games, there are no fresh injury concerns for the LionsXII going into this game (bar long-term injury victims Afiq Yunos and Samuel Benjamin).

Faris Ramli, Sahil Suhaimi, Christopher Van Huizen and Zakir Samsudin have been recalled after being away in Gotemba, Japan for centralised training with the Singapore Under-23s in preparation for the upcoming SEA Games. Faritz Hameed has also resumed training after recovering from injuries from a motorcycle accident.

The line-up for Saturday night looks to be pretty settled with Izwan Mahbud in goal, Zulfahmi Arifin and Madhu Mohana to continue their centre-back partnership, Hafiz Sujad at left back, Gabriel Quak and Faris Ramli on the wings, Safuwan Baharudin and Izzdin Shafiq in the middle of the park, Khairul Amri and Khairul Nizam to pair up in attack.

The only uncertainty should be at right-back where Nazrul Nazari, Raihan Rahman and Faritz are all vying for one slot.

Kelantan, on the other hand, have the luxury of a full team to pick from. There are no major injury worries for coach Azraai, with Amutu the only player recovering from a knock sustained in the first leg of the semi-final. The forward might not last a full game, but will definitely play a part at some point.

His two goals against Pahang in the second leg tell the tale. The LionsXII had better watch out for his impact if he comes off the bench.


LionsXII Player to Watch: Khairul Amri

Who else but him?

It is no secret that the goalscoring responsibilities fall heavily on Amri’s shoulders, with the 30-year-old hitting the net a total of five times in this superb Cup run. He showed his worth with a superbly-taken double against Terengganu last week and that should set him up nicely for this much-anticipated final.

Over the years, Amri has forged a reputation for being a ‘big-game ace’ – scoring in the 2004, 2007 and 2012 AFF Suzuki Cup finals which helped the Lions to regional glory each time. He will hope to come up with the goods against the tough Kelantan centre-back pairing of Amirizdwan and McKain.


Kelantan FA Player to Watch: Austin Amutu

If a game-changer is what you seek, look no further than Nigerian ace Austin Amutu. The 22-year-old has four goals in as many games since arriving in Kota Bharu just over a month ago, including the equalising and winning goals (on aggregate) against Pahang in the second leg of their semi-final.

Amutu combines searing pace with quick dribbling ability reminiscent of compatriot Dickson Nwakaeme, and Kelantan fans will be hoping that he’ll become as valuable as their former talisman. He may not play a full match in the final, but you wouldn’t bet against him making an impact.

- Darren Goon (@Box_to_Box)

The Coaches

On the losing end against Kelantan two years ago when he was in charge of Johor Darul Ta’zim, LionsXII coach Fandi Ahmad will have a second bite of the cherry against the very same opposition.

However to do so, he first have to get the better of one of the shrewdest operators in Malaysian football in Azraai Khor. The 62-year-old, who has over 20 years of coaching experience, is the only coach to win the Treble of the Malaysian Super League, FA Cup and Malaysia Cup in successive seasons in 2006/2007 and 2007/2008.

Things did not exactly work out for him at T-Team last year, where he tendered his resignation after being unsuccessful in his bid to keep the side in the top-flight. Thereafter, he took the opportunity to go to Brazil to upgrade his coaching skills and gain attachments with some of the leading football clubs in the country – all on his own expenses.

That was until Kelantan president Tan Sri Annuar Musa came calling with an offer which he could not refuse.

Facts and Figures
  • Kelantan have the upper hand in terms of the head-to-head records between both teams – they have won six, while the LionsXII have only won once.
  • The solitary win came in the 2013 league season where a late Shahfiq Ghani goal separated both sides at the Jalan Besar Stadium.
  • In terms of goalscoring, Kelantan are equally effective in each half (with 10 apiece in the first half and the second half in all competitions), while the LionsXII are slightly more clinical in the second half (13 goals in the first half as compared to 16 goals in the second half in all competitions).
  • Cup finals have traditionally been tight affairs – in the previous nine years, five of them have been decided by a one-goal margin while the other four went down the penalties.
  • The last time a team won by two goals or more was in the 2005 final where Selangor FA overcame Perak FA 4-2.

FourFourTwo predictions
FFT.com Editor Zee Ko: Putting bias aside, the LionsXII will be fired up to prove their critics wrong. Kelantan to take an early lead but the LionsXII to come roaring back for a historic first title. 1-2.

Gary Koh: The LionsXII will have to contend with an overwhelmingly pro-Kelantan crowd but I think the Singaporeans will put in a backs-to-the-wall performance and win 1-2 in extra time after the Red Warriors tire.

Kenneth Tan:
As mentioned, a Cup final is akin to a chess game so do not bet on a high-scoring game. Kelantan are the favourites, but there is something about this year’s LionsXII squad that makes them thrive under pressure. I fancy them to nick it 0-1.

Darren Goon: I don't believe in fairytales. I'm backing Kelantan to win 3-2.

Main Photo: Football Association of Singapore

Source: http://www.fourfourtwo.com/my/features/fourfourtwo-preview-kelantan-fa-vs-lionsxii

FA Cup win would mean more than 2013 league title, say LionsXII defenders



After playing bit-part roles in the LionsXII's 2013 league triumph, first team centre-backs Zulfahmi Arifin and Madhu Mohana are determined to bring the 2015 Malaysia FA Cup back home this weekend.

2 July 2013 was a historic day for the LionsXII as they lifted the MSL title in front of a capacity crowd after beating Felda United 4-0.

Madhu exchanged high fives with the rest of his teammates after coming on as a 56th-minute substitute for Faritz Hameed at right back, while Zulfahmi, who was not named in the matchday squad, trudged onto the field thereafter to join the celebrations.

Winning the league was a fantastic achievement for everyone associated with the club, but the pair knew at the back of their minds that they were only peripheral figures that year. Madhu featured a total of four times in the 21-game long season while Zulfahmi went one better.

Fast forward almost two years and the duo could be part of a silverware-winning squad again albeit as first team regulars. Madhu has missed only two out of the 16 games in all competitions, while his defensive partner missed out on three.

Speaking to FourFourTwo on Wednesday evening after training at Geylang Field, the duo said that winning the FA Cup would mean much more to them than 2013's league triumph.

“Obviously, the feeling will be different,” Zulfahmi said.

“When you win something, of course you’re happy but you won’t feel the excitement as much when you’re always on the bench.

“This year, I’ve been involved much more and getting more opportunities although it is not my position. I’m really proud to be playing all this while and we have to stick together in order to win the Cup.”

“Definitely it’ll be more special because I’ve been playing a lot this year,” Madhu echoed.

“In my four years here, we have not won a cup, so it’ll be great for me if I can play my part to help the team achieve that.”

Halting the Red Warriors

The task will not come any easier as they have to contend with Kelantan’s three-pronged strike force of Erwin Carrillo, Gimar and Austin Amutu. The trio are responsible for half of the 20 goals which they have scored in all competitions.

However the centre-back pairing is keen to learn from a similar experience in the semi-finals where they faced Terengganu FA’s Norshahrul Idlan Talaha, Paulo Rangel and Issey Nakajima-Farran.

“I think facing Kelantan will be similar to facing Terengganu,” Zulfahmi said.

“They play the same kind of direct football with big and strong foreign forwards, but we are quite used to that when playing in the league. We just need to focus and not give them space.

“The main difficulty is our physique because we will surely lose out in that aspect. We need to hold and not go on to the other side because they might just turn us.”

“Even though we conceded three the last time round, I think we did okay,” Madhu insisted.

“It’s going to be a hard task for the defence again and I’ve been doing my homework by watching some of Kelantan’s match highlights on YouTube. So far the morale is high and the desire is good, so if we work together and help each other, we can overcome all these obstacles.”

There were worries as to who would fill Afiq Yunos’s void at the heart of defence after the defender sustained an ACL injury away on international duty in late March, but it was soon allayed by Zulfahmi's swift conversion to central defence – something which even the man himself was surprised with.

“Yes, I had never played there before except for friendly matches,” he said.

“But so far I’ve been adapting well and somehow I’ve been managing to get into position to tackle the man and get behind the ball. It’s actually easier than playing in midfield where you have to both attack and defend.

“The partnership with Madhu has been good and we have the understanding; we communicate a lot either through shouting at each other or hand signals because sometimes we cannot hear each other during the game.”

“Everyone was shocked when coach (Fandi Ahmad) decided to put Zul there but I think we’re doing okay lah,” Madhu said.

“After a few games, we got comfortable playing with each other and we do complement each other in terms of our strengths and weaknesses. But of course there’s always room for improvement; we can still do better in terms of covering each other and communicating more.”

Coping at Bukit Jalil

A near 90,000 crowd will be waiting to greet the LionsXII on Saturday night at the Bukit Jalil Stadium, with the majority expected to be Kelantan fans.

Having been on the bench when the Singapore national team faced off against Malaysia at the same venue in the 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the 2012 AFF Suzuki Cup opener, Zulfahmi knows how intimidating the matchday atmosphere will be.

“I remember going to Bukit Jalil with the national team and I can even feel the jitters from the bench,” he recalled.

“You have to shout if you want to talk on the bench because you cannot even hear each other! The good thing is that I’ve adapted well to playing away because I’m good at ignoring.

“Whenever the opposition fans shout or boo at us, it won’t really affect me and I will just focus on my game. These are things that we have to deal with and I’m sure it’s going to be a memorable occasion for all of us.”

Photo: Football Association of Singapore

Source: http://www.fourfourtwo.com/my/news/fa-cup-win-would-mean-more-2013-league-title-say-lionsxii-defenders#Kccttvs9GJetvvFv.99

Thursday 21 May 2015

LionsXII fired up to win Malaysian FA Cup, says Fandi

By Wang Meng Meng(Straits Times)


The LionsXII at the Changi Airport Terminal 2 departing for Kuala Lumper ahead of Malaysia FA Cup Final. -- ST PHOTO: ALPHONSUS CHERN

The LionsXII departed on Thursday afternoon for Kuala Lumpur ahead of Saturday's mission to win the Malaysian FA Cup final and coach Fandi Ahmad believes his men are fired-up to meet Kelantan.

Speaking at Changi Airport Terminal 2, former Singapore football captain Fandi said: "This is a final and you don't need extra motivation. I am very happy with the team. They are fantastic boys who are very disciplined and they have lots of determination."

The LionsXII will meet Kelantan at Bukit Jalil Stadium in an attempt to win its first-ever Malaysian FA Cup. The team had never progressed further than the quarter-finals since returning to Malaysian competition in 2012.

"This game (final against Kelantan) is definitely the biggest game for us so far," said Fandi, who took charge of the team at the beginning of last year.

It's a big thing for us, especially the players. They have to show a lot of composure and show that they can take the pressure."

Safuwan Baharudin, who had returned to the team after a three-month loan spell with A-League side Melbourne City, added: "We are a local team with no foreigners, so we know that even if we are representing LionsXII in the final, we are the pride of Singapore.

"I am looking forward to the final, the pressure is not on us, it is on Kelantan."

Source: http://www.straitstimes.com/news/sport/football/story/football-lionsxii-fired-win-malaysian-fa-cup-fandi-20150521#sthash.NlybRut6.dpuf

Malaysian FA Cup Final: Kelantan vs LionsXII LIVE STREAMING!

FULL TIME:

LionsXII are the Malaysian FA Cup Champions!!!

LionsXII 3-1 Kelantan FA

6' Faris Ramli
83' Sahil Suhaimi
90+2' Sahil Suhaimi(pen)

All 3 goals comes from Singapore SEA GAMES PLAYERS!

‪#‎LionsXII‬ ‪#‎PialaFA2015‬ ‪#‎SGfootball‬

NEWS | Match Report:
VIDEOS | FULL MATCH HIGHLIGHTS !
- Updated as of 24th May 2015
_______________________________________________________________________________

2015 Malaysian FA Cup Final:

Kelantan vs LionsXII LIVE STREAMING!



8.45PM (Singapore/Kuala Lumpur Time)(+8 GMT)
23rd May 2015, Saturday
Bukit Jalil Stadium


VS


Links will be updated as the match day is nearer.

Click the Link at 8.35pm as the match kicking off at 8.45pm(+8 GMT)

Worldwide: 


Link 1 -> TV 1 Malaysia

Singapore/Southern Johors:

Catch the ‘LIVE’ telecast of the 2015 Malaysia FA Cup FINAL at 8:45pm on SuperSports Arena Ch 112/205 or watch it on the go via StarHub TV Anywhere.

Non-StarHub TV customer can also catch all the action ‘LIVE’ by tuning their TV set to 76.25Mhz.

Probable LionsXII line up: 

Izwan Mahbud;
Nazrul Nazari, Mahdu Mohana, Zulfahmi Arifin, Hafiz Abu Sujad;
Gabriel Quak, Safuwan Baharudin, Izzdin Shafiq, Faris Ramli;
Khairul Amri, Khairul Nizam

Match Reports, Previews, Analysis for the Malaysian FA Cup Final, 
Kelantan(Malaysia) vs LionsXII(Singapore) !

Talisman Amri looking forward to Saturday's final


ROAR: Khairul Amri celebrating after scoring his second goal for the LionsXII against Terengganu...TNP PHOTO: BENJAMIN SEETOR

A hero last Saturday, LionsXII star Amri's buzzing ahead of the Malaysian FA Cup final

BY SHAMIR OSMAN(TNP)

He stood behind the goal at the Geylang pitch yesterday, both goading and cajoling his teammates, who were still out on the pitch shooting at goal, laughing along with them when shots were scuffed.

This was long after time was called on the LionsXII training session yesterday, and shirtless and still smiling his usual broad smile, there was something a little different about Khairul Amri.

There was a spring in the step of the Singapore international striker, and why not.

There is huge match around the corner, and Singapore's big hope for the big occasion already couldn't hide his excitement.

The LionsXII face Kelantan in the Malaysian FA Cup final at the Bukit Jalil Stadium on Saturday, and in a chat with The New Paper yesterday, Amri said: "Of course I'm excited. Yes, the LionsXII have won the league before (in 2013) but this is a cup final, and a Singapore team hasn't been in a (Malaysian domestic) final for 21 years.

"When I was growing up, all people would talk about was that Malaysia Cup final, how special it was, how it's a part of our history - I want that feeling."

That final in 1994 saw a Fandi Ahmad-led team write themselves into local football folklore, beating Pahang 4-0 to seal a historic Malaysia Cup and league double, the last time a Singapore team competed in domestic competitions across the Causeway before our return three years ago .

The LionsXII were formed in 2012 and had yet to qualify for a final, until Amri's two spectacular goals last Saturday in the second leg semi-final away to Terengganu ensured his team advanced (4-4 on aggregate) on the away goals rule.

KNACK

Amri has a knack for scoring in finals.

He scored a goal in each of the 2004, 2007 and 2012 AFF Suzuki Cup finals to inspire the national team to victory, and he's looking to dig deep, and find that same player for the big occasion on Saturday.

"The Suzuki Cup is about national pride and I loved every minute of it, but this is just different, somehow," said the 30-year-old, who has not represented any of his four clubs in a cup final.

"This bunch of players can do the 
job, it's just a matter of following instructions and putting in effort, and I think we can get the job done, even if (Kelantan) score first in the final," he insisted.

"Seeing the mood in the team, and the confidence that we've had over the last few games, we are not afraid of anyone."

Amri believes that the LionsXII spirit was forged in the fiery second leg fixture in Kuala Terengganu last Saturday, and it has made the team stronger.

"Terengganu equalised very quickly after I scored the opening goal, and we started to worry, and they equalised again (in the 60th minute) after I scored the second goal. I remember looking at the clock every time, and thinking: why is time passing so slowly," he recalled.

"At the back of my head was that loss to ATM in the (2012) Malaysia Cup semi-final, but I believed we could do it."

Under V Sundramoorthy then, the LionsXII were on their way into the Malaysia Cup final, but conceded a goal after seven minutes of time added on at the end of the game.

They went on to lose on penalties.

This time it is already different, because the LionsXII are in the final.

Amri echoed the words of head coach Fandi, calling for calm.

"We just need to play without putting pressure on ourselves and enjoy our football. We are the underdogs anyway, and we've got nothing to lose," said Amri.

"You know what will make the difference... If half of Bukit Jalil is filled by Singaporean fans - I heard in 1994 more than half of the people (at the Shah Alam final) were our people.

"I hope our fans come, I would really love to score a goal in the final and win in front of Singaporeans."

Cup final tickets sold online


Tickets for the Malaysian FA Cup final between Kelantan and the LionsXII can be purchased online at www.tickethotline.com.my from 10am today.

Tickets are priced from RM40 ($11.20) and upwards, while concession price for children starts from RM5 ($1.40).

Some 30,000 tickets have been allocated for each team's fans, and the remainder 20,000 tickets are available online.

The final will be played at the Bukit Jalil Stadium in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday. Kick-off is at 8.45pm.

Source: http://www.tnp.sg/sports/singapore-football/talisman-amri-looking-forward-saturdays-final#sthash.dBtLFbFS.dpuf