Singapore’s coach comments on being grouped with Vietnam in the AFF Cup 2026

Singapore’s head coach Gavin Lee mentioned that Group A is highly competitive, considering the 2026 ASEAN Cup an important trial before the Asian Cup.

Singapore’s head coach Gavin Lee expressed his anticipation for the first impressions of coach John Herdman in charge of Indonesia, as the two teams are set to face each other in the group stage of the 2026 ASEAN Cup.

The draw results announced in Jakarta on January 15 confirmed that Singapore and Indonesia will share Group A along with defending champions Vietnam, Cambodia, and either Timor Leste or Brunei. This group is seen as highly competitive, requiring thorough preparation from all teams right from the start.

Regarding the upcoming challenge, coach Gavin Lee frankly acknowledged that this group presents both difficulties and opportunities for Singapore’s development. “The draw has created a tough but exciting challenge. Our priority is to focus on ourselves, prepare thoroughly, and ensure the players enter every match determined to win,” he emphasized.

According to the 35-year-old strategist, the 2026 ASEAN Cup is not only an immediate goal but also plays a key role in the pathway toward the Asian Cup. “This tournament is an essential part of our preparation for the Asian Cup. We have the chance to compete against strong opponents under tough conditions, gaining experience to be ready for the highest level of competition. The real work starts now,” Coach Gavin Lee affirmed.

Singapore has won the ASEAN Cup four times, most recently in 2012. In the last tournament, a 0-0 draw against hosts Malaysia on December 20, 2024, secured their spot in the semifinals, where they were eventually eliminated with an aggregate score of 1-5 by the champions Vietnam.

Captain Hariss Harun stated that the entire team carries greater determination. “Reaching the semifinals in the previous tournament reminded us of the special significance of the ASEAN Cup for the people of Singapore. The team has grown a lot and wants to go further. We will keep fighting with unity to live up to the support of our fans,” Hariss Harun shared.

The 2026 ASEAN Cup is scheduled to take place from July 24 to August 26, promising to be an important benchmark for the ambitions of regional teams.