As the Lion City Cup returns to Jalan Besar Stadium, Singapore’s Under-16 Boys are preparing to showcase the next generation of local footballing talent. Head Coach Ashraf Ariffin and forward Izzan Farid addressed the media at the pre-tournament press conference, expressing confidence and excitement ahead of their opener against the Philippines tomorrow evening (9 July).
Describing the team’s recent preparations as short but fruitful, Coach Ashraf highlighted the value of their nine-day training camp in Thailand from 21-29 June.
“I think our nine days in Thailand were very good, they served an important purpose for us,” he said. “The team bonded very well, and we managed to work on a lot of major things that we feel will be important heading into this tournament. Although we had a short window to prepare, I think the outcome at the end of the training camp was very positive.”
That training camp proved pivotal in finalising the squad. A larger group was brought to Thailand, and the 34 players were tested across six matches played over three matchdays — a demanding stretch designed to expose them to high-level competition and identify those best ready to perform on the international stage.
“In Thailand, everybody competed for their places. We played six games in nine days, so everyone had plenty of game time to prove themselves,” Ashraf explained. “We had a headache at the end of the camp to select the best 25 — but that’s the kind of headache we want. It means we have talent out there.”
For Izzan, the opportunity to represent Singapore is one he and his teammates want to grab with both hands.
“I think it’s a great honour to represent Singapore,” he said. “It was a dream for most of us. We’re proud to wear the jersey and we’ll give everything we have.”
As they stand on the cusp of the tournament , both player and coach emphasised the importance of competing with intensity and purpose. For Ashraf, instilling a competitive mentality is key.
“The most important thing is that they compete,” he noted. “They must be ready to go out there and have the desire to win — to fight, to be aggressive, and to be brave in all phases of play.”
Izzan echoed his coach’s sentiment.
He said: “I want to see all my teammates fight for each other — to win every tackle, header and challenge. That mentality is important if we want to compete and get a good result.”
Beyond results, however, the coaching staff have a long-term vision in mind. The Lion City Cup is not just a showcase — it is a stepping stone.
“My expectation is simple: to see the team grow and individuals develop,” said Ashraf . “At the end of the day, the big picture is for them to become future national players. And for that, they need more international games like this.”
With the stage set and the spotlight about to turn to the next generation of Lion City footballers, Ashraf and his boys will look to rise to the occasion — and give the home fans plenty to cheer about.
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