National women’s football coach Karim Bencherifa has blamed the unavailability of key players in his squad as the excuse for the team getting a 5-1 hammering against Indonesia in an international ‘A’ friendly match played on 28 May.
He also admitted that the results are a “cause for concern”.
“Of course it is a concern. But we have to take into consideration that when we play overseas, it’s always difficult because we miss players,” he told The Straits Times.
“When we travel, we have an issue of not having players either because of their work or school.
“For example, we didn’t have Danelle (Tan) who is very important for us up front.”
Tan missed the match on 28 May given that her last match for Borussia Dortmund was on 26 May, two days prior.
Other players also missed the match against Indonesia for one reason or another:
Hazel Lim – Southern United (Australia)
Clara Lau – Spring Hills (Australia)
Stephanie Dominguez – Casey Comets (Australia)
Raeka Ee – Lion City Sailors
Umairah Hamdan – Lion City Sailors
Sarah Zu’risqha – Lion City Sailors
Izairida Shakira – Lion City Sailors
“Yes, the recent results are a concern, I agree.
“But I believe when we have a full team, we will do better,” Bencherifa said.
Fans who tuned in to watch the livestream would have been scratching their heads in disbelief, wondering if Bencherifa indeed had a plan, or was he lost.
Result aside against a team ranked 28 rungs higher in the FIFA ranking, the Singapore side did not look at any point to trouble the Indonesians, goal aside.
“The only way is up,” he said.
But what if the team slides down even further in the world ranking?
What if the team continues to lose, given Bencherifa’s current record of five consecutive defeats?
“Of course, there are challenges but they do not deter me, I will not hide and I take full responsibility and I am committed to giving my all for this job,” he told The Straits Times.
“What needs to improve is the focus… and the attitude on game day, to switch on and focus.
“There are also things that are my responsibility, such as improving technically and improving our fitness.”
But what if you are not cut out for the job, Bencherifa?
His contract ends in March 2025.
PHOTOS: FAS