The long-awaited first leg of the Singapore Cup 2025 semi-finals finally arrived, as Albirex Niigata FC (S) hosted BG Tampines Rovers FC at home for their first meeting of the season.

From the opening minutes, the visitors took control of the game. In the 9th minute, Albirex conceded the first corner kick of the match, and two minutes later faced a dangerous situation in front of goal. However, goalkeeper Hassan Sunny kept his composure and produced a fine save to keep the score level.

In the early stages, the opponents built their attacks mainly down the left flank and created several threatening moments. Despite the pressure, Albirex’s defensive unit remained focused and dealt with the danger well.

In the 35th minute, a sharp cross was delivered into the penalty area, resulting in the biggest scare of the first half. Once again, Hassan Sunny was equal to the task, making another crucial save to deny the visitors.

Although Albirex spent long spells under pressure in the first half, disciplined and organised defending prevented the opposition from breaking through, and the teams went into the break level at 0-0.


After the restart, Albirex enjoyed slightly more possession in their own half compared to the first period, but struggled to progress the ball into attacking areas.

In the 55th minute, a misplaced pass in their own half was intercepted by the opposition, allowing their forward to turn and fire a shot from close range, giving the visitors the opening goal.

As Albirex searched for a response, Ren Nishimura, who had come on as a substitute, broke through the defensive line in the 73rd minute and cleverly laid the ball off with the outside of his foot. Syed Firdaus ran onto it and struck a first-time shot, but it narrowly missed the target to the left.

Just as Albirex looked to regain momentum, they conceded a second goal in the 76th minute when a corner kick from the opposition went directly into the net. Another goal followed in the 85th minute, leaving the home side facing an uphill battle.

Even so, the team maintained a positive attitude until the final whistle. In the 89th minute, high pressing forced a turnover, and Jayden Heng unleashed a shot, but it failed to find the target.

In stoppage time, the opposition’s pacey forward drove in from the flank, leading to a final goal as the match ended in a 0-4 defeat.

It was a disappointing result at home, but the team will regroup and prepare once again for the second leg away from home.

We sincerely appreciate your continued support.

【Next Match Information】
Singapore Cup 2025/26 Semi-Final 2nd Leg
Saturday, 20 December | 19:30
vs. BG Tampines Rovers FC
@Our Tampines Hub