Singapore head coach Gavin Lee has underlined two key priorities—performance and results—heading into his side’s highly anticipated international friendly against arch-rivals Malaysia on Thursday, September 4, at the Bukit Jalil National Stadium.
The match, kicking off at 9:00 p.m., is set to draw massive regional attention, as both teams are using the fixture as a crucial test ahead of the AFC Asian Cup 2027 Qualifiers in October.
Lee, who has named a strong squad featuring seven overseas-based players alongside top talents from the Singapore Premier League, emphasized that while the result matters, it is the performance that his players can fully control.
“There are two things (in this match): team performance and the result. The truth is, results can be unpredictable and influenced by many factors.
But what we can control is our performance, and that is where our 100% focus lies,” Lee told reporters at the pre-match press conference.
The 34-year-old tactician added that a strong showing on the pitch will naturally bring his team closer to a positive outcome against Harimau Malaya.
“The more positive things we deliver on the field, the closer we are to achieving a good result,” he said.
Lee also cautioned that the game will not be without challenges, predicting that his players will face difficult moments during the clash. However, he urged them to remain united and respond constructively as part of their bigger preparations for October’s qualifiers.
“We know tomorrow’s match will be tough. There will be moments that don’t go our way, but how we respond to them will be crucial, not just for this match but also for the Asian Cup Qualifiers.”
Credit Photo : FAM
