Commentary: It’s time to ask ourselves exactly how important football is to Singapore

It has been a while since Singapore's football scene has enjoyed a genuine momentum. With the national team reaching the ASEAN Championship in 2023, there is some excitement among supporters, particularly after the Lions secured a historic 2-1 win against Thailand at their home ground. This marks Singapore's first victory over Thailand since 2012 and their first win in the tournament since 2009.

Under the guidance of head coach Gavin Lee, the Lions have made impressive strides, including improving their passing game, dominating possession, and creating numerous scoring opportunities. Despite facing teams with strong players, the Lions have showcased a level of sophistication that has not been seen in previous years, including their performances in the Asian Cup.

However, while Lee and his team have delivered promising results on the field, the upcoming inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup in September presents a bigger challenge. The tournament will feature regional teams, including Indonesia and Malaysia, who will be fielding their best players. Singapore will face Indonesia and Malaysia in Group A, followed by the AFC Asian Cup in January, where they will encounter tough opponents such as Australia, Iraq, and Tajikistan.

While Lee has undoubtedly improved the team, questions arise about whether Singapore has the necessary players and experience to compete at the Asian Cup level. The Lion City Sailors' Lionel Tan filled the right back position during the ASEAN Championship, but naturalisation could provide the team with the competitive edge it needs. Perry Ng, who recently received his Singapore permanent resident status and is eager to play for the national team, is one such player who could make a significant impact.