Singapore national team head coach Li Siping has named a 24-man squad for the upcoming Mizuho Blue Challenge – The Kallang Football Series, with Cardiff defender Huang Tianxi sidelined as he awaits the birth of his first child.
The Lions are scheduled to face Paraguay on November 13, followed by a match against five-time world champions Brazil on November 17. While the fixtures were initially intended as preparation for the AFC Asian Cup, the Asian Football Confederation announced on November 3 that the tournament would be postponed to December due to the security situation in host nation Saudi Arabia.
Wu Junwei earns maiden call-up amid squad changes
The team’s upcoming friendlies feature a different lineup than the squad that played in the FIFA ASEAN Cup. Balestier Khalsa midfielder Wu Junwei has earned his first-ever call-up to the senior national side. Li Siping noted that the 21-year-old’s performance in the domestic league demonstrated a level of maturity and stability that justified his inclusion at the international level.
Other changes include the return of Hougang United midfielder Saifullah Akbar, alongside Geylang International defensive players Joshua Pereira and Dai Dingwei. Ilhan Fandi and veteran Shawal Anuar are listed as the only two forwards. Yishan Fandi is currently unavailable due to injury, while Irfan Fandi was not included in the selection.
Defensive depth has been impacted by injuries as well. Lion City Sailors full-back Nur Adam Abdullah, who suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury during a match against the Young Lions on October 11, was ruled out of the upcoming series.
Focus on the South American challenge
Despite the disruption to the broader tournament schedule, Li Siping emphasized that the team’s strategic focus remains unchanged. He stated that the safety and well-being of players, staff, and fans remain the priority, and the team would continue to follow guidance from relevant authorities regarding the rescheduled fixtures.
The Lions enter the matches against Paraguay and Brazil following a 0-6 loss to Malaysia during the previous international window. Li Siping acknowledged the disappointment surrounding that result but framed the upcoming friendlies as a necessary test against high-level international competition.
“Paraguay and Brazil are teams that are constantly active at the highest level of international football, and we are well aware that this will be a stern test,” Li Siping said. “We need this kind of experience to constantly challenge ourselves, overcome difficulties, and strive to be in the best possible shape when the Asian Cup arrives.”
Confirmed match details
The Lions will face Paraguay on November 13, followed by the Brazil encounter on November 17. These matches serve as preparation for the squad before the Asian Cup, now set for December.
