AFF Women's Championship 2026: From Youth Ranks to the Senior Stage: Mulan’s Ready to Make Her Mark
- SportPlus News
- 22 hours ago
- 2 min read
The rising midfielder eyes a debut as the Lionesses prepare for the AFF Women’s Championship campaign in Kuala Lumpur.
KUALA LUMPUR, 13 JULY 2026 - For many, the journey to the national team is a marathon—a test of persistence, grit, and the ability to seize the moment when it finally arrives. For rising midfielder Mulan, that journey has taken her through Singapore’s youth national setup and overseas training, culminating in a well-deserved first senior call-up for the AFF Women’s Championship.
As the Lionesses prepare for their opening clash against Laos on 13 July, followed by a pivotal encounter against hosts Malaysia on 16 July at the KL Football Stadium, Mulan finds herself in familiar company. Despite this being her maiden senior camp, she notes that the transition has been seamless.
"I’m really grateful to be back," Mulan shares. "Most of us grew up together in the youth settings and through previous AFC Under-19 qualifications, so it’s a very familiar team. It’s good to be back and training as usual."
The step up to the senior squad comes with a new tactical environment under Head Coach Mihoko Ishida. Describing the training sessions as "really intense," Mulan admits that the experience has been eye-opening.
"It’s my first camp under Coach Mihoko, and it feels different," she says. "She’s a very calm coach, and I’m really enjoying the intensity and the environment she creates. I’m very grateful she called me up with the tournament being so close."
As she integrates into the squad, Mulan credits the senior leadership for helping her find her feet, specifically highlighting the support of teammate Fahana.
2027 ASEAN Championship Dreams
Looking ahead to the international window, Mulan’s objectives are grounded in team-first principles. "My goal is to carry out whatever role the coach asks of me, give my best, and be as much of a team player as I can be," she says. Her ambitions for the team are equally clear, with eyes set on qualifying for the 2027 ASEAN Championship and pushing for a deep run in the current AFC tournament.
Should she be handed the opportunity to make her senior international debut in Kuala Lumpur, Mulan hopes to showcase the work ethic and versatility she has cultivated throughout her youth career.
"If I get the opportunity to make my debut, I hope people see how hard-working I am and the skills I’m able to bring to the pitch," she adds. "Most of all, I just want to ensure the team benefits from my performance."
With the Lionesses ready to roar in KL, keep an eye on Mulan—a player who has spent years waiting for this moment, and is now ready to make it count. #SgFootball #AFFWomensChampionship