The Young Lions started their SEA Games campaign in disappointing fashion after being able to muster only a 1-1 draw against 10-man Laos in the opening match of the group stages. They spurned a host of chances and were eventually punished by a late set-piece equaliser after a lapse of concentration in defense.
However, Aide Iskandar’s boys have bounced back admirably since then, putting in a magnificent defensive shift in a 1-0 victory over Vietnam, which was followed by a routine 2-0 victory over whipping boys Brunei.
Singapore were a whisker away from beating causeway rivals Malaysia too, but a last minute free-kick by Rozaimi Rahman earned his team a share of the spoils and forced Singapore to settle for second spot in Group A.
Thailand, on the other hand, comfortably topped their group after brushing aside Timor Leste 3-1 before demolishing fellow semi-finalists Indonesia 4-1. They then sealed their qualification berth after coming from behind to draw 1-1 against hosts Myanmar before resting their key players in a 0-0 draw against Cambodia.
Both teams have two wins and two draws from four games, but Thailand would seem to be favourites entering this tie.
Defender Praweenwat Boon Yong and midfielders Pokklaw A Nan and Thitiphan Puangjan have all scored two goals each in the group stages while Adisak Kraisorn and Atit Daosawang have a goal apiece.
As for Singapore, Sahil Suhaimi is currently the joint-top scorer in the tournament with three goals, while Hariss Harun and Afiq Yunos have bagged a goal each.
Prior to the tournament, Aide mentioned that he did not want his team to peak too early, instead expecting his boys to pace themselves and improve as the tournament wore on. So far, his plan seems to be working.
But if they are to reach Zainudin’s goal of getting into the final, now is the time for Aide’s charges to peak and play their best, because Thailand would hold the biggest test for Singapore.
The blossoming defensive partnership between Afiq Yunos and Safuwan Baharudin will be key to stop the Thais from scoring, while striking duo Shahfiq Ghani and Sahil will need to make the most of the chances that come their way.
Thailand lost their 14-year Gold medal winning streak in 2009 when Malaysia clinched top spot. The 2011 was also won by Harimau Muda. Singapore meanwhile have never won the SEA Games gold and failed to claim a podium finish at the last games.
goal.com
