Playing on Singapore's "Small Pitch" Away, China's National Team Should Be Cautious

Written by Chen Yong and Han Bing On June 5, Shao Jiayi will guide the Chinese national team in an away match against Singapore at Jalan Besar Stadium. Back in November 2011, during the 20-team qualifier for the World Cup, China defeated Singapore 4-0 at this stadium, but that was more than ten years ago. It is worth noting that the field is only 98 meters long and 63.5 meters wide, giving an advantage to the hosts who rely on defensive counterattacks.

Since Shao Jiayi officially took over the national team, China's four A-level matches from March to June are against Curaçao, Cameroon, Singapore, and Thailand, with the first three being away games. They will only play at home in Jinhua, Zhejiang, on June 9. Importantly, these four opponents are at different levels, providing varied tests for the Chinese team.

Although Singapore may not seem strong, China was held to a 2-2 draw away in the 2026 World Cup Asian qualifiers, a result that put the team in a precarious position. At that time, Shao Jiayi was an assistant coach for the national team.

For China, this match serves first as a simulation of an away game; second, as a test of the team's consistency; and third, as an opportunity to practice tactics.

At the pre-match press conference, Shao Jiayi stated that Singapore has performed well in recent matches, looking completely different from the team he remembered—more modern, organized, and disciplined. "I believe tomorrow will be a very intense game, and I trust we can handle this challenge."

Regarding preparations, Shao Jiayi emphasized that every match is equally important for the national team. "Our games in March against Curaçao and Cameroon, and in June against Singapore and Thailand—all are crucial. Our preparation and approach are the same for each. We must give our best performance and attitude." He did not disclose whether China would participate in the ASEAN Cup, but feedback suggests they are more likely to decline.

Since taking over, Shao Jiayi has accelerated the team's youth transition, with some young players earning starting or rotational roles based on their ability—a positive development, such as right-back Yang Xi. On this, Shao said there is no distinction between young and veteran players in the national team; U23 players are not considered youngsters here. "Since they are here, they have the required ability. We consider each player's form, tactical plans, and the opponent's situation comprehensively. I want to give players as many opportunities as possible."

After the match against Singapore, China will return home to face Thailand, where the Chinese Football Association will hold a ceremony to commemorate Wu Lei's 100th appearance. Speaking about Wu Lei, Shao Jiayi regards him as a iconic figure in Chinese football over a long period. He hopes Wu Lei maintains good form. Last season, Wu Lei underwent surgery, returned in the Super Cup, and has come off the bench in all subsequent Chinese Super League matches.

This match will be held at the 6,000-seat Jalan Besar Stadium, with tickets already sold out. In a match against Mongolia six days ago, around 4,200 fans attended. Li Siping believes the home atmosphere will help Singapore perform better.

In November 2011, during the World Cup qualifiers, China beat Singapore 4-0 at this stadium, which remains Singapore's heaviest international defeat on this pitch. Note that the field is only 98 meters by 63.5 meters, an advantage for the home team playing defense and counterattacks. For Wang Yudong and Liu Haofan, this stadium is familiar; in 2024, they played for Zhejiang in an AFC Champions League 2 away match, losing 0-2 to Lion City Sailors, with both players featuring.

On May 31, Singapore comfortably beat Mongolia at home. Baharudin and Korean-born naturalized player Song Ui-young scored two goals in the first half. In the second half, Mongolia scored an own goal, and Ikhsan Fandi sealed the win near the end. After the match, coach Li Siping said Singapore was in good form but needed to stay calm and balanced against China, aiming to breach China's goal like two years ago. Li Siping became a father the day before the match and hopes to add more joy.

Li Siping admitted the team will face greater pressure against China. "It's a tough challenge, but that's exactly the pressure we need. Only by competing against stronger opponents can we improve our performance."

After finishing the Thai league this week, key forward Ikhsan Fandi joined the squad, boosting Singapore's attacking strength. Li Siping brought Ikhsan to the pre-match press conference, highlighting his importance. Ikhsan said that although China is strong, Singapore is prepared: "Every match is part of our preparation for the ASEAN Championship, the FIFA Southeast Asia Cup, and the Asian Cup. It's a process. Our mindset is to learn, improve, and grow."