The second match of the Singapore Cup. For Albirex Niigata FC (S), it was their first home game since the league opener in August. Their opponents were Balestier Khalsa FC — the same team they faced in that opening match.
For both teams aiming for back-to-back wins in the Singapore Cup, this match was crucial in determining their chances of advancing to the next stage.

The opening 10 minutes saw both sides testing each other, with the game evenly balanced. Albirex, led by midfielders Naoki Yoshioka and Takumi Yokohata, looked to build up play and find attacking opportunities.



In the 14th minute, Jared Gallagher played a brilliant through ball behind the defense, setting Yokohata free, but his shot was caught by the goalkeeper. Just three minutes later, in the 17th minute, a long through pass from Kim Taeuk found Shingo Nakano, whose effort led to a loose ball picked up by Yokohata. However, his shot narrowly missed the left post. Albirex began to gain rhythm as the game progressed.



In the 20th minute, right winger Nozomi Ozawa sent in an early cross that created a chance, but it just missed Nakano. However, in the 23rd minute, the breakthrough came. Katsuyuki Ishibashi quickly intercepted a misplaced pass from the Balestier center-back and passed it to Yokohata in front of goal. Yokohata calmly slotted it home, giving Albirex the long-awaited lead. A huge roar erupted from the stands as the team’s morale soared.



Even after taking the lead, Albirex continued to control the game, pressing high to win back possession. In the 37th minute, Sim Jun Yen won the ball high up the pitch and delivered a cross into the box. From the following corner, Ozawa’s delivery found Jun Yen’s head, but his effort struck the crossbar. Later in the half, a VAR check was called for a foul by Balestier near the penalty area, but no goal resulted, and Albirex went into halftime with a 1–0 lead.



In the second half, Albirex continued to dominate, pushing forward aggressively from the start. In the 55th minute, from a sharp counterattack, Yokohata’s cross was met by Jun Yen’s header, but it flew just over the bar. Then in the 57th minute, after a VAR review, a penalty was awarded to Balestier, and they converted to level the score at 1–1. The match was back on even terms.

Albirex tried to regain momentum but were punished in the 74th minute after a careless back pass in their own half, conceding a costly goal to fall behind 1–2. Despite the difficult situation, the team refused to give up, making substitutions and increasing the attacking tempo.



As the game entered the final minutes, Balestier sat deep to defend their lead, and Albirex struggled to create clear chances. Still, Albirex stayed composed and kept moving the ball. In the 90+2 minute, Yokohata’s cross deflected off a defender and hit the crossbar — so close to an equalizer.

Then, in the 90+3 minute, the game turned once more. From Yoshioka’s corner kick, center-back Kim Taeuk rose highest and powered in a perfect header. The ball smashed into the back of the net, bringing Albirex level at the death. The stadium erupted in celebration.



Riding the wave of momentum, Albirex kept attacking relentlessly. In the 90+8 minute, Danish Qayyum cut inside from the left wing and delivered a cross with his right foot. Nicky Melvin Singh reacted sharply and headed the ball onto the post — and into the net for a dramatic winner. Players, staff, and fans all celebrated together as the final whistle blew.



Albirex, who fought until the very end without giving up, earned a stunning 3–2 comeback victory. It was a memorable match where their determination and team effort were fully rewarded.

With this win, Albirex secured their second straight victory in the Singapore Cup. Our next match will be at home against Tanjong Pagar United FC — their first encounter this season. Thank you for your continued warm support!

【Next Match】
Singapore Cup 2025/26 Round 3
Sunday, November 23rd – 19:30 vs. Tanjong Pagar United FC
@Jurong East Stadium (Home)