Singapore start AFF U16 Championship against Laos

Singapore's Under-16 National team face Laos in their AFF U16 Championship opener

The Singapore Under-16 National Team, led by head coach Ryo Shigaki, will be participating in the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) Under-16 Championship 2018.

Singapore has been grouped with Thailand, Malaysia, Laos and Brunei. It will start its tournament against Laos on 1 August.

Preparations for the tournament began in early March where the team played three friendly matches against higher age-group teams and participated in the Japan-ASEAN U16 Youth Football Tournament where they competed against regional opponents such as Thailand. The players have also seen considerable playing time with regular competitive matches in the Centre of Excellence U16 League, where they play in their respective clubs.

Coach Ryo is confident of his boys’ chances having seen their preparations. The experience gained from the preparation will help his boys mentally and physically.

“The AFF U16 Championship is a good opportunity for young players to gain international playing experience and develop game intelligence, especially against strong opponents like Thailand and Malaysia. Having played Thailand, Laos and Brunei earlier this year, the team has been working on our playing strategy and tactics. I am confident the boys will put to use what we have prepared for this tournament and give their all for the games,” mentioned coach Ryo.