Football: S’pore under pressure to beat Philippines at Suzuki Cup semi—final

SINGAPORE: The pressure is on Singapore to score against the Philippines on Wednesday after a first—leg semi—final match ended goalless in Manila last Saturday.

7,000 tickets have already been sold for the match at Jalan Besar Stadium.

The Philippines’ German coach said the team is ready, and that the artificial pitch at Jalan Besar is not a problem.

"To establish ourselves among the better nations... We are getting there, but we have to prove again and again and again, that this is not a one—time thing. Just to be consistent on the level," said Micheal Weiss, coach of the Filipino team.

The Azkals, as they are known, want to shed their perennial whipping boys image.

The team from the Philippines got down to training soon after their arrival.

Singapore will also have their work cut—out for them if they want to reach a fourth cup final.

"The job is not done yet. It is another game, another 90 minutes. I will be happy if they show same spirit like in Philippines and hope to go to the final," said Raddy Avramovic, head coach of the Singapore team.

Experience and home ground advantage aside, the Lions are also preparing for the dreaded penalty kicks.

Penalty kicks will decide the match if the teams are still level after regulation and extra time.

The Football Association of Singapore said that it hopes all Singaporeans will wear red come Wednesday to show their support for the team.

The association is also organising two live public screenings at Tampines and Jurong.

— CNA/jc