With four clean sheets in as many matches, Izairida Shakira has been a commanding presence between the posts for Lion City Sailors Women this season.
More than that, it is her control of the backline that stands out, with her voice often carrying across the pitch as she organises the defence and keeps the team compact in key moments.
This Friday (13 March) night at the Choa Chu Kang Stadium, however, the 18-year-old will face her biggest test yet as the Sailors take on defending champions Albirex Jurong in the Women’s Premier League (WPL).
Both sides have begun the season in ruthless fashion, piling up goals and victories with impressive consistency. And with the title race already shaping into a tight contest that could come down to goal difference if both teams maintain their form, this encounter could prove pivotal.
The Sailors currently sit second in the WPL standings, behind Albirex on goal difference. The rivalry extends beyond the league table as well, with players from both teams dominating the race for the league’s Golden Boot.
Despite the stakes, Shakira remains confident in the team’s defensive organisation, pointing to communication as a key factor in keeping Albirex at bay.
“Communication is a big part of goalkeeping. I always make sure to talk to my defenders because it helps us stay composed,” said Shakira.
“It’s especially important for players who come on as substitutes, like Nisa (Khairunnisa Anwar), Ayu (Nurhidayu Naszri) or even youngsters like Tyan (Foong) and Remi (Ogawa). There are bound to be nerves at times, so communication at the back helps them settle quickly, especially in high-intensity games like this.”
Leadership within the backline has also been crucial in maintaining the Sailors’ defensive solidity. With captain Umairah Hamdan yet to play a part this season due to injury, the likes of Syazwani Ruzi and Dhaniyah Qasimah have stepped up to marshal the defence.
“Having Wani as captain is a bonus because even without the armband, she always does her job to perfection,” said Shakira. “Knowing she is there with the rest of the defenders gives me confidence. I trust them.”
Albirex’s reputation needs little introduction. The reigning champions boast a wealth of experience and attacking quality, including players who have competed on the international stage.
For Shakira and the Sailors’ defence, staying alert to their key threats will be vital, while the midfield battle could also prove decisive.
“We know Albirex are a very good team with great players, some of whom have played in the FIFA Women’s World Cup,” Shakira noted. “We are aware that Ruriko Takashima, Manami Fukuzawa and Kana Kitahara are key players we need to watch closely.
“They have a strong group of midfielders, but so do we. I’m confident that players like Eri Kitagawa and Ami Kawase will step up, even though it will be their first time facing Albirex as opponents.”
While Shakira’s clean-sheet record has been impressive, the goalkeeper was quick to emphasise that it is a collective achievement.
“I’m proud of the clean sheets, but I can’t take all the credit,” she said. “I wouldn’t have them without my defenders and the whole team, so the credit goes to them.”
With anticipation building ahead of Friday’s clash, the mood within the Sailors camp remains one of confidence and unity.
“Games against Albirex are always tough. They are quick in transition and will try to use that against us,” Shakira said.
“Matches like this are the ones I look forward to most because they allow me to test myself and see how much I’ve improved. Mentally it’s always a challenge, but every training session leading up to the game helps build my confidence.
“With each game, we’re growing stronger and closer as a team. We’re excited for this match and we want to keep improving.”
