Football: Singapore Announce 26-Man Squad for November FIFA Window
- John Yeong
- 9 hours ago
- 5 min read
Gavin Lee Aims to Impress as Interim Head Coach Amid Growing Calls for Permanent Appointment to lead Singapore National Football Team
SINGAPORE, 5 November 2025 — The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) has unveiled a 26-man squad for the upcoming November FIFA International Window, with interim head coach Gavin Lee set to lead the Lions into two pivotal matches that could define the nation’s footballing future.
Singapore will travel to Pathum Thani to face Thailand on 13 November, before a decisive encounter against Hong Kong, China at Kai Tak Stadium on 18 November in Group C of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup qualifiers.
Both teams sit level on eight points, with Hong Kong narrowly leading on goal difference. However, head-to-head results take precedence in this competition format — meaning the winner of their clash will secure top spot and automatic qualification for the 2027 Asian Cup Finals in Saudi Arabia, regardless of other results.
Gavin Lee’s Growing Case for a Permanent Role
After confirmation that Gavin Lee will continue as interim head coach, calls have intensified among fans and pundits for the 34-year-old tactician to be appointed Singapore’s permanent head coach.
Since taking charge, Lee has instilled fresh energy and structure into the team, highlighted by October’s 2–1 away victory over India that revived Singapore’s qualification hopes. His tactical clarity and emphasis on domestic talent have impressed both the media and supporters.
“We are fully aware of the opportunity in front of us,” said Lee. “We need the same focus on preparation, being together, and trusting our processes. This is a moment for everyone – the team, the staff, and the fans – to come together.”
Timeline of Singapore National Team Head Coaches (1999 - 2025)
Squad Balances Consistency and Form
Lee’s selection rewards players who have shown strong Singapore Premier League (SPL) form while maintaining a consistent core group that has driven the Lions’ progress throughout the campaign.
Geylang International captain Joshua Pereira earns his first call-up since June 2024 after a series of commanding defensive performances. Lion City Sailors full-back Akram Azman and BG Tampines Rovers winger Faris Ramli also return following standout domestic form.
Faris’ return strengthens an attacking unit featuring Ikhsan and Ilhan Fandi, alongside Song Uiyoung, whose brace in Goa last month reignited Singapore’s qualification push.
Fan Support Ramps Up for Final Push
For supporters travelling to Thailand, match tickets at Thammasat Stadium are available for purchase, while fans heading to Hong Kong can register for an official ticket waitlist for updates on ticketing and logistics.
Meanwhile, official nationwide watch parties will be held across Singapore, allowing fans to gather and rally behind the Lions. Details will be released by FAS in due course.
A Rare Local at the Helm
If appointed permanently, Gavin Lee would become the first Singaporean in nearly 25 years to hold the post on a full-time basis. The last confirmed permanent local head coach was Vincent Subramaniam (1999–2001), while V. Sundramoorthy (2016–2018) and Fandi Ahmad (2018) both served in interim or short-term capacities.
Lee’s current run could therefore mark a turning point for Singapore football — both on the pitch and in the belief that local coaches can again lead the national team to regional success. Full November 2025 - 26-man Squad for Singapore Nationall Football Team