The Lion City Sailors are on the brink of a historic Asian Champions League Two (ACL2) semi-final, but they still have work to do.
A week ago, a 6-1 thrashing at the hands of Sanfrecce Hiroshima seemed to have ended their dreams.
But in a stunning twist, the Asian Football Confederation Disciplinary and Ethics Committee ruled that the Japanese club fielded an ineligible player, handing the Sailors a 3-0 win instead.
Just like that, the tables have turned.
Sanfrecce arrived in Singapore for the second leg at Jalan Besar Stadium on 12 March with a mountain to climb.
But not one which cannot be surmounted by the Japanese side.
Their head coach, Michael Skibbe, remained bullish about their chances.
“The conditions are not ideal because it is an artificial pitch, but on the other hand, it is a nice, compact space, and we have to stay focused on the match. We are aware of the result from the first leg, so we must produce the best football we are capable of.” said Skibbe.
The Sailors, on the other hand, know they cannot sit back and defend for 90 minutes.
Head coach Aleksandar Rankovic admitted the situation was unusual.
“We found out about the AFC decision two days after the first leg, and honestly, we were surprised.
“I’ve never encountered such a situation before. If we’re talking purely from a sporting perspective, is it fair? No.
“Let me be clear, I wouldn’t be happy about it.” said Rankovic.
Sailors captain Hariss Harun emphasized the importance of maintaining the same mentality throughout their ACL Two campaign.
While the Sailors hold a three-goal advantage, he acknowledged Sanfrecce Hiroshima’s quality and stressed that nothing is decided yet.
With a crucial game still to play, the team remains focused on their performance and getting the job done.
The anticipation for this decisive match is palpable among Singaporean football fans.
Tickets have been selling rapidly, with nearly 70% sold shortly after release, indicating robust support for the Sailors’ historic quest.
Jalan Besar has been a fortress for the Sailors in ACL2, with wins over Zhejiang Professional, Port FC, and Muangthong United.
Now, they have the chance to witness history.
If the Sailors get the job done, they’ll move on to a semi-final clash in April against either Sydney FC or Jeonbuk Hyundai Motors.
One more big performance.
One more night to remember.
Will the Sailors make history?
MAIN PHOTO: LION CITY SAILORS