Sports Minutes with Zia-ul Raushan

Two clubs. One trophy. And plenty of history. As Lion City Sailors and BG Tampines prepare to meet in a repeat Singapore Cup Final, Sports Minutes hosts a pre-match face-off featuring Bailey Wright and Trent Buhagiar. From dressing-room beliefs to changing managers, new signings and old rivalries, the pair lift the lid on what really goes into preparing for the season’s first showpiece event.

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As Singapore football enters a new era, local coaches are finally being trusted with bigger responsibilities. Jaswinder Singh, assistant coach at Albirex Jurong, joins Sports Minutes to discuss his coaching journey, the grind behind earning the AFC Pro Licence, and the realities of carving a career around the beautiful game. 

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They’re blamed, booed, and rarely praised, but what’s it really like to be a referee? Former Singapore Premier League official Andrea Verolino joins Sports Minutes to tackle VAR debates, referee reviews, and fan misconceptions head-on. From “referee kayu” chants to high-pressure nights at the National Stadium, this is an unfiltered look at football’s most scrutinised role.

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A brand new year offers brand new possibilities - especially when it comes to sport, and particularly Singapore football. So what did the rollercoaster that was 2025 teach us? And what is on the wish list for 2026? Deepanraj Ganesan is back in the Sports Minutes hotseat alongside Zia-ul Raushan to tell us.

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She’s all of eight years of age, but she’s fearless, and she’s made Singapore proud on home soil. Skater Chloe Chua wowed the crowd at a recent international event here in Singapore, and today Chloe’s coach Lucas Ng and Koh Chee Wah non-executive chairman from KIN Productions join Sports Minutes to reflect on her performance and what her story means for the next generation of local athletes as well as the Singapore sports scene.

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It’s official - 35-year-old Singaporean Gavin Lee has been named head coach of the Singapore Men’s National Team, just a week after guiding the Lions to historic Asian Cup qualification. Fresh off signing an 18-month deal that takes him through the 2026 Asean Championship and the 2027 Asian Cup, Gavin joins Sports Minutes to discuss his rise from interim to in-charge, from failed footballer to in-demand tactician, and from managing Tampines to taking on the biggest job in Singapore football.

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With Singapore football riding high after THAT famous night in Hong Kong, the Lion Cubs now step into the spotlight. Head Coach of the Men's Under-22 team, Firdaus Kassim breaks down how the his charges are aiming to exorcise the ghosts of 2023, rebuild belief, and push towards a SEA Games campaign that could shape the nation’s footballing future.

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Just months ago, Ethan Brown was serving NS. Today, he’s back from Misano after battling some of the world’s top young drivers. He joins Sports Minutes to talk national service, national pride and the belief that a Singaporean can make it all the way to the pinnacle of GT racing.

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An historic night, an historic feat. Singapore are through to the 2027 Asian Cup after securing a 2-1 win away in Hong Kong. We hear from the jubilant camp post-match, and also wonder if Gavin Lee and Hariss Harun will be the ones to lead our Lions at the 2027 Asian Cup.

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With close to 300 caps between them, Hariss Harun and Safuwan Baharudin are undoubtedly the leaders in the Lions' pack. And ahead of Singapore's 'winner-takes-all' AFC Asian Cup qualification clash against Hong Kong at the Kai Tak Stadium, the duo sat down with Sports Minutes to talk about their winding roads of ups and downs that have led them to stand on the cusp of making history.

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He’s found scoring form for club and country, secured his spot on the wing for the National Team, and is running at defenders with confidence. Now, Glenn Kweh joins Sports Minutes for an heartfelt chat about goals, growth, Gavin’s demands and the dream of making history with the Lions.

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Ahead of the 'winner-takes-all' assignment in Hong Kong on November 18, Singapore fell to a 3-2 defeat in a friendly against Thailand. Scoreline aside, what did we learn from the performance? And how are things shaping up in the Lions' den ahead of next week's clash? Deepanraj Ganesan weighs in on Sports Minutes.

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They’ve seen the men’s team make history...now it’s their turn! Ahead of their AFC Women’s Champions League group stage debut, Lion City Sailors captain Umairah Hamdan and striker Raeka Ee sit down with Sports Minutes to share their excitement, lessons from their qualifying campaign, and how they’re drawing inspiration from the Sailors’ continental journey to chart their own.

READ MORE:
https://www.lioncitysailorsfc.sg/awcl-sailors-women-bullish-ahead-of-stern-melbourne-city-test/

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A career marked by brilliance and blemishes. Tajeli Salamat’s story is one of talent, turmoil, turning points and tough lessons. On this Sports Minutes EXCLUSIVE, Tajeli offers his most candid interview yet - unpacking what really happened, what he’s learned, and what comes next for one of Singapore’s most polarising footballers.

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It’s the story that captured hearts everywhere - a mother and daughter on opposite sides of the same football match. On Sports Minutes, Siti Nurwati and her daughter Hannah Tasha open up about the day that changed everything, how football deepened their bond, and what they hope for women’s football in Singapore.

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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/football/special-mom-ent-for-mother-daughter-pair-in-womens-national-league-match

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A new name, a bold dream - and just 12 months to make it happen. American outift Cadillac are going full throttle toward their 2026 Formula 1 debut. From star signings to behind-the-scenes with Keanu Reeves, Sports Minutes sits down with CEO Dan Towriss to learn about how this team plans to shake up the grid, one lap at a time.

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https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/formula-one/f1s-newbies-cadillac-want-to-hit-the-ground-running-in-2026

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834 days. That’s how long Nicky Melvin Singh’s comeback took - a journey through surgery, self-doubt and national service. Now back on the pitch and back on the scoresheet, he joins Sports Minutes to share lessons on resilience, mindset and rediscovering the joy of football.

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The countdown to the SEA Games starts now. As the Nations Cup 2025 gets underway at the OCBC Arena, Netball Singapore's K Mishalenee and Matilda Narayan tell Sports Minutes why the home tournament isn’t just a warm-up, it’s their stage to shine and a chance to gain winning momentum.

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Singapore’s goalkeeper crisis takes centre stage - with Zharfan struggling, Syazwan slipping, and Izwan sidelined, who can Gavin Lee trust between the sticks? Sports Minutes breaks down the Lions’ last line of defence, the Spence-to-Singapore rumours and all the key takeaways from Matchweek 5 of the SPL and the Singapore Cup format that has caused much furore.

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What does bigger, bolder, better really mean? Sports Minutes finds out from Netball Singapore's CEO Daniel Ho and Singlife's chief marketing officer Debra Soon - as they reveal how the 2025 Singlife Nations Cup will raise the bar for the sport in Singapore.

Event information and tickets:
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Patrick Kluivert’s brief and bumpy spell in charge of Indonesia has ended - but the story goes far beyond one man’s tenure. As Singapore and Thailand also look for new national coaches, Indonesia’s experience serves as a warning and a window into the region’s deeper footballing flaws. What went wrong in Jakarta, and what can Southeast Asia learn from it?

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Matchweek 4 in the Singapore Premier League wasn’t just about results, it was about resurgence. Local players stole the show, VAR stirred debate, and the title race started to take shape. Sports Minutes unpacks it all in the company of Deepanraj Ganesan. 

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More than a handshake - it’s a shared vision for the future of Singapore football. Sports Minutes speaks to Geylang International head coach Noor Ali and Jungfrau Punggol President Robin Wong about the 3-year memorandum of understanding that connects the pros, the semi-pros, and the women’s game - and what it means for young players chasing their dreams.

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They wanted redemption...and they delivered! Singapore silenced the critics with a gutsy 2-1 win over India to keep their AFC Asian Cup hopes alive. Former Lion Adam Swandi joins Sports Minutes to share his verdict, along with the post-match reactions of Safuwan Baharudin and Ikhsan Fandi from Goa.

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A painful night. A long flight. And now, a do-or-die showdown in Goa. Ilhan Fandi speaks exclusively to Sports Minutes on bouncing back from late heartbreak last time out, finding belief and his scoring touch, and chasing history for Singapore - ahead of the Lions' clash against India on Tuesday, 14th October.

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A late mistake proved costly as Singapore’s hopes of Asian Cup qualification took a hit. Sports Minutes unpacks the fallout from a gut-wrenching draw against India - as we hear from coaches & players, while discussing what it means for the road ahead.

READ MORE:
https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/football/singapore-rue-loss-in-concentration-in-1-1-draw-against-india-in-asian-cup-qualifying-setback

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He’s earned his first Lions call-up, and plenty of attention. Jonan Tan joins Sports Minutes to discuss his footballing rise, life in Portugal, and what it means to receive his maiden call-up for Singapore ahead of two crucial ties in the hunt for Asian Cup qualification.

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It’s crunch time for the Lions - and calm leads the charge. Interim head coach Gavin Lee joins Sports Minutes ahead of Singapore’s crucial double-header against India to talk belief, balance, and bold decisions. With history within reach, will composure be the Lions’ greatest weapon?

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A defining weekend for motorsport and football alike. Sports Minutes dissects George Russell’s flawless drive, Verstappen’s fiery resurgence, and Singapore’s ever-growing pull on the F1 map - before turning our lens to the Lions’ historic qualifier against India. All in the company of Deepanraj Ganesan, sports reporter with The Straits Times.

READ MORE:
https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/formula-one/mercedes-george-russell-wins-f1-singapore-grand-prix-mclaren-retain-constructors-title

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Could Sami Hyypia be interested in the vacant Singapore men's national team job? And what does the former Liverpool captain make of the Red's current wobble? Those were some of the questions Sports Minutes posed to the 51-year old, on the sidelines of the Singapore Grand Prix.

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It’s race week in Singapore! David Croft, the voice of Formula 1, joins Sports Minutes to preview the 2025 Singapore Grand Prix. From Hamilton’s Ferrari struggles to Verstappen’s Marina Bay drought and McLaren’s title charge, Crofty breaks it all down - plus, his podium predictions for F1’s most iconic night race.

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Two games, two assists...and PLENTY of buzz. But who is Harry Spence beyond the highlight reels? From making a splash in top-flight football with the Young Lions, to learning from seasoned teammates and dreaming of bigger stages, the 19-year-old speaks to Sports Minutes about life, football, and the road ahead.

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A FIFA ruling against the Football Association of Malaysia and seven players over falsified eligibility documents has sent shockwaves through the region. Sports Minutes get the perspective from across the causeway on the scandal, its impact on fans and domestic leagues, and what lessons Singapore and the region can draw from this crisis.

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From personal setbacks to national ambition, wheelchair rugby has given athletes like Aidil Khalip a new family, and coaches like Azhar Yusof a new mission. With the Singlife Corporate Challenge around the corner, they join Sports Minutes to talk about building resilience, corporate support, and preparing Team Singapore for the ASEAN Para Games.

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Matchweek 3 of the Singapore Premier League had it all - red cards, refereeing controversy, and late late drama. From Balestier’s last-gasp winner to the Sailors’ seven-goal showcase, plus a standout performance from Ong Yu En, Sports Minutes breaks down the biggest talking points.

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It’s been more than a decade since the Singapore National Team last lifted silverware - but Mustafic Fahrudin knows what it takes. In his first interview since becoming the Lions’ interim assistant coach, the 2-time AFF Champion shares the inside story of his partnership with Gavin Lee, preparations for Malaysia and India, and his hunger to help resurrect Singapore football.

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Vying for a Singapore National Team breakthrough, Jared Gallagher steps into the new season with fresh motivation. Called up to Gavin Lee’s local centralised training squad soon after being appointed co-captain at Albirex Niigata for the season ahead -  the 23-year-old opens up on leadership, pressure, and the dream of representing Singapore while cementing his place in domestic football and beyond.

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The FAS says commitment comes first. Parents argue education can’t take a back seat. At the centre of this debate is 16-year-old Mika Baihakki, omitted from the U-17 squad after skipping a training camp trip for exams. His mother’s viral post has thrown the spotlight on FAS’ handling of youth development and communication. PR veteran and TMSG founder Jose Raymond joins Sports Minutes to analyse the messaging, the fallout, and what this saga means for Singapore’s student-athletes.

READ MORE:
https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/football/local-celeb-norfasaries-post-on-sons-omission-from-national-u-16-football-team-goes-viral-fas

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And so it begins! The 2025/26 Singapore Premier League season is officially up and running - with 6 of the 8 teams in action on MD1. Did the increased number of foreigners truly translate to better quality football? And of the local players, who caught the eye? Deepanraj Ganesan joins Sports Minutes to run the rule on it all.

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The SPL season has kicked off, and Balestier’s Daniel Goh is back for his third spell with the Tigers. Fresh from a 2-2 draw against former club Albirex, he joins Sports Minutes to talk comebacks, adapting to Marko Kraljevic’s style, and the challenges locals face amid foreign influx. At 26, is this the make-or-break stage of his career?

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Imagine giving your life to football - close to 100 caps for Singapore, 250 club games, countless memories...only to be left without a contract. That was Shahdan Sulaiman’s reality until late July. And his struggle mirrors that of many local players battling rule changes, foreign influx, and uncertain futures. Now handed a lifeline by Geylang International, the 37-year-old is out to prove that experience and leadership still matter.

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After a shock 4-1 defeat in the Community Shield to Tampines Rovers, BIG questions marks have emerged for the Lion City Sailors. A big-money signing that looks out of sync, a head coach who has issued a plea to his management for more players, and a team that generally looks undercooked and under prepared. So will the defending SPL champions get their act together before the league kicks off? We discuss and dissect it all on Sports Minutes.

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The brand new domestic football season is almost upon us - with the Community Shield kicking off on August 16th. And with a brand new season comes brand new signings, brand new kits and brand new motivation. But what would brand new heights look like for a team like the Lion City Sailors, who achieved so much last campaign? Hami Syahin sits down with Sports Minutes to tell us more.

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Son Heung-Min’s move from Tottenham to LAFC for a record fee closes one chapter and opens another. On Sports Minutes, journalist Steve Price joins us from Seoul to explore Son’s Premier League legacy, his immense popularity in Korea and the world over, and the marketing and footballing impact he’ll bring to MLS. Plus, two Spurs fans share heartfelt tributes to a player who inspired them far beyond the pitch.

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A bombshell SEA Games omission. A league with no sponsor. A national team in transition. On his 100th day in charge, Forrest Li & his team had some hard questions to answer. Reporting from the FAS Media Day, Sports Minutes recaps how Singapore football’s new leadership is plotting a bold revival - and why the road ahead will need more than just vision and vigour.

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With National Day looming large, Sports Minutes celebrates the everyday heroes who shape our sporting culture. Meet Ashok Kumar, the photographer who captures joy, pain and glory, then disappears into the background. Hear what it takes to shoot at the highest level, why trust matters more than fame, and what keeps him coming back for more.

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Leaving home isn’t just about distance - it’s about daring. Harhys Stewart’s journey from Singapore to Kosovo (via Thailand) is a story of bravery, belief, and breaking the mould. And speaking to Sports Minutes - he reflects on his late start, adapting to the unknown, and why he hopes his bold move inspires the next wave of Singaporean footballers.

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Change is never easy, especially when controversial. The SPL’s new rule allowing seven foreign players per match has sparked uproar, with many fearing it threatens local players’ chances. Yet, this influx could also boost the league’s standards and competitiveness. So, which matters more? Local legend Abbas Saad and former Welsh international Rob Earnshaw join Sports Minutes to share their views.

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With the likes of Fabio Cannavaro, Harry Kewell, Nick Montgomery and Mano Polking on the list, Singapore’s search for Tsutomo Ogura's replacement signals ambition. But will reputation trump relevance? Deepanraj Ganesan, who exclusively broke the shortlist for The Straits Times, sits down with Sports Minutes to share his thoughts.

READ MORE: 
https://www.straitstimes.com/sport/football/world-cup-winner-fabio-cannavaro-among-list-of-top-names-for-singapore-football-coach

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Football's household names may have graced the pitch - Arsenal, AC Milan, Newcastle. But thousands of seats remained untouched. What should’ve been a celebration of the beautiful game has instead become a flashpoint, with fans voicing frustration over ticket costs and accessibility. So were the fans truly priced out?

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Why would a battle-tested Aussie defender - who’s played across Indonesia, India, and Hong Kong - join Tanjong Pagar United, a side that finished bottom of the pile last season? Aaron Evans sits down with Sports Minutes to unpack his bold leap into Singapore football, and how he plans to lead a renewed Jaguars side with grit, fight, and foresight.

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Every season begins with a story. For Nikola Ignjatovic, it’s a leap into the unknown. For Raiyaan Noor, it’s stepping out of his fathe Noor Ali's shadows. Together, they represent Geylang International’s next chapter. In this heart-on-sleeve episode, the Eagles duo reflect on expectations, pressure, family ties and more.

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From injury comebacks to national team heartbreaks, Singaporean midfielders Jacob Mahler and Joel Chew have lived the highs and lows of football. Now reunited at BG Tampines Rovers - the duo sit down with Sports Minutes to talk about their friendship, football ambition, and what it means to be part of Singapore’s next generation.

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The Lion City Sailors aren’t just building a team - they’re sending a message. With the blockbuster signing of Brazilian striker Anderson Lopes hot on the heels of Tsiy Ndenge, Ivan Sušak, and Safuwan Baharudin, Singapore’s ONLY privatized football club is making it clear: they’re not here to play catch-up - they’re here to compete with Asia’s elite. Big names. Big ambition. But will big spending bring big success?

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Lion City Sailors score coup with two-time J1 League top scorer Anderson Lopes

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With the Festival of Football about to explode in Singapore, Sports Minutes brings you two voices from Arsenal - new signing Christian Nørgaard and Riccardo Calafiori. From settling in to sailing out to Singapore, title ambitions and to pre-season expectations, the Gunners duo pull no punches. Will you be cheering them on at the Singapore Sports Hub on 23 & 27 July 2025? 

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Sweeping changes are coming to the Singapore Premier League - from a spike in foreign player quotas to the launch of a new reserve league. As Forrest Li begins his FAS presidency, we ask: are these reforms a bold leap forward or a risky gamble for local football? 

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FAS introduces enhancements to SPL, with increase in prize money and foreign player quotaFAS introduces enhancements to SPL, with increase in prize money and foreign player quota

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Six years since retiring as Singapore’s most decorated para swimmer, Theresa Goh is back competing - only this time with a pistol. Why, and why now you ask? Tune in as she tell us all about her remarkable comeback, and the support that’s fuelling her second act. With one eye on the 2026 ASEAN Para Games and the Paralympics beyond, Theresa reflects on rediscovering purpose, rebuilding routine, and why starting over doesn’t mean starting from scratch.

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Paralympic swimming medallist Theresa Goh makes sporting comeback with shooting

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Football is a game of fine margins - and on today's show we dive deep into the tactical side of BG Tampines Rovers’ rebuild. Analyst Nigel Goh makes his Sports Minutes' debut alongside Deepan to decode the club’s transfer strategy, tactics and the technical skill sets of their new foreign signings.

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Should Singapore lean into heritage players? Kai Whitmore certainly thinks so. Eligible through his late grandfather, the Welsh midfielder is ready to give up his British passport to play for the Lions – but not everyone agrees with naturalisation. And on this episode, Kai speaks candidly about identity, sacrifice, and ambition.

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Welsh midfielder Kai Whitmore wants to play for Singapore; exploring citizenship process

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Tsutomo Ogura’s sudden exit throws the Lions into yet another identity crisis -with the crucial Asian Cup qualifiers looming. Gavin Lee steps into the void to take interim charge, but all eyes now turn to Forrest Li’s FAS. In their first major footballing decision, will they get it right? Deepanraj Ganesan, who exclusively broke the story for The Straits Times, sits down with Sports Minutes to dissect it all.

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Departing Singapore coach Tsutomu Ogura hails Lions’ spirit, urges players to make history

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Mike Phelan knows what greatness looks like - having worked alongside Sir Alex Ferguson, first as a player then part of his coaching team. As Fergie’s trusted right-hand man, he helped shape one of football’s most dominant dynasties. From the hairdryers to the heartbreaks, Mike Phelan sits down with Sports Minutes to take us inside life alongside Sir Alex, the Ole comeback, and the club’s modern-day identity crisis.

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A club in transition. A chairman steps aside. And now, a head coach departs. After 8 years at the helm, Desmond Ong bid farewell as Chairman of BG Tampines Rovers on 1st June - and soon after, it’s been confirmed that head coach Gavin Lee will also be departing the club. What triggered this sweeping reset? Is this the end of an era, or the beginning of something new? Sports Minutes sits down with Desmond to talk legacy, leadership and succession.

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Thiruben Thana Rajan recently shattered a 38-year-old national record in the 800m at the Asian Athletics Championships - and that's just the start. From injury comebacks to podium dreams, he sits down with Sports Minutes to share how he balances a full-time job with full-speed ambition. This is more than just a win on track - it’s a story of persistence, planning, and passion.

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On this Father’s Day special of Sports Minutes, Singapore captain Rosnani Azman shares how her late father’s unwavering support shaped her dreams - and how his absence continues to shape her fight - on and off the pitch. This is a tribute to fathers, a reminder to hold them close, and a look at how sport can carry love beyond loss.

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Singapore’s Asian Cup qualifying campaign took flight as the Lions beat Bangladesh 2-1, courtesy of goals from Song Ui Yong and Ikhsan Fandi. Sports Minutes recaps it all with exclusive interviews from Hariss Harun, Hami Syahin & Ikhsan Fandi plus analysis from Deepanraj Ganesan.

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Lions survive late onslaught to claim first win of Asian Cup third-round qualifiers

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Buoyed by a big win against Maldives, next up for Singapore is Bangladesh in the Asian Cup Qualifiers. And ahead of the duel in Dhaka, Sports Minutes heads into the Lions den to check in with Song Ui-Young. From returning after a year's absence due to personal reasons, to a budding midfield partnership with Kyoga Nakamura - it’s all building up to a pivotal 90 minutes that could define Singapore’s qualification hopes on the road to Riyadh.

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Song Ui-young gets Lions recall after year-long absence due to family matters

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Singapore ended a six-game winless streak with a morale-boosting 3-1 win over the Maldives - just in time for their Asian Cup qualifier in Bangladesh on June 10. Ikhsan Fandi marked his return to the side with a brace, while man-of-the-match Safuwan Baharudin made headlines of his own, revealing his club future exclusively to Sports Minutes. Tune in as we hear  from both players and a look ahead to the duel in Dhaka with Deepanraj Ganesan.

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Ikhsan Fandi brace helps Lions end six-match winless run with 3-1 victory over the Maldives

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It hasn’t always been smooth sailing for Ikhsan and Ilhan Fandi - but in this candid conversation with Sports Minutes, the brothers speak openly about battling injuries, dealing with setbacks, and rediscovering confidence. And as they return to the Singapore setup, they reflect on their journeys abroad, how they've grown, and the fire that still burns strong. More than just football, this is a conversation of resilience, brotherhood, and unfinished business.

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Records smashed, trophies lifted, stars departing! We dive into the drama and glory of Singapore Premier League Awards Night, as the best in class of the 2024/25 campaign were celebrated. Were the winners deserving? And have we seen the last of some of domestic football's finest stars? Deepanraj Ganesan weighs in on all of this and more!

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Tomoyuki Doi named Player of the Year at Singapore Premier League awards night

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Peter de Roo isn’t just walking away from Balestier Khalsa, he’s sounding the alarm on a sport he believes is stuck in survival mode. Speaking to Sports Minutes, the outgoing coach opens up about his frustrations with the system, the lack of ambition upstream, and why Singapore football seems allergic to bold ideas. 

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Balestier Khalsa’s departing coach Peter de Roo urges FAS to get out of comfort zone to improve SPL

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2-time Premier League winner Joe Hart sits down with Sports Minutes to discuss his ‘fraught’ relationship with Pep Guardiola, working and winning under Ange Postecoglu at Celtic and his admiration for the league winners Liverpool. Plus, despite earning 75 caps for the Three Lions and 43 clean sheets to show for, does he feel he gets the recognition he deserves? Tune in to find out!

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Ange Postecoglou deserves credit for ending Tottenham Hotspur’s trophy drought: Joe Hart

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It was a night to remember at the Bishan Stadium but alas, it was one that stung. The Lion City Sailors battled to the brink of AFC Champions League Two glory, but Sharjah FC’s winner in stoppage time ultimately crushed their dreams. Sports Minutes dissects it all in the company of three players who lived every second of that emotional final - Hariss Harun, Toni Datkovic & Hami Syahin, as well as The Straits Times' Deepanraj Ganesan. 

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With the ACL Two final looming large, Sports Minutes returns for a blockbuster episode featuring Lion City Sailors captain Hariss Harun and goalkeeper Izwan Mahbud. Fresh off clinching the Singapore Premier League title the Sailors now stand on the brink of history - with a sold-out Bishan Stadium and opponents Sharjah awaiting in Sunday's showdown, and the tantalising possibility of a treble within reach.

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Is Singapore football's BIGGEST reset finally here? With new FAS leadership, an evolving Unleash the Roar project, and the ever-controversial Goal 2034 - it well and truly could be. But on the road to that lofty target of playing at the FIFA World Cup, what’s working, what’s not, and what still needs fixing.? Kadir Yahaya, R. Sasikumar and Deepanraj Ganesan join forces on Sports Minutes to tell it like it is — the good, the bad, and what comes next.

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Has Singapore football Unleashed the Roar to achieve its goals

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History has been made. The Lion City Sailors are the first Singapore football club to reach the final of a continental competition.And on this episode of Sports Minutes, we relive the momentous night in Sydney, where the Sailors lost 1-0 but still punched their ticket to the Asian Champions League Two final with a 2-1 aggregate win. What does this means for Singapore football, and is the dream treble still alive for the Sailors? Tune in as we hear from captain Hariss Harun, head coach Aleksandar Rankovic and Deepanraj Ganesan.

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SIX POINTS from their remaining SIX games, that’s all that stands in the way of Liverpool and the Premier League Title. But how have the Reds gone from the uncertainty of life after Jurgen Klopp to being on the cusp of coronation under Arr-neh Slot? Former Red John Arne Riise is in the Sports Minutes hot seat to tell us more.

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Bernard Tan, the outgoing president of the Football Association of Singapore, reflects on his tenure at the helm - marked by both significant efforts and heavy criticism. He explains his decision not to seek re-election, explores the highs and discusses the lessons learnt from the lows. So was he the right man at the wrong time, or was he the wrong man regardless of the time? Tune in and decide for yourself.

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The Lion City Sailors took a big step towards the AFC Champions League Two final with a first leg 2-0 win over Sydney FC at a rain-soaked Jalan Besar. And on this star-studded edition of Sports Minutes - Bart Ramselaar & Bailey Wright weigh in on the team’s form and focus. Adam Swandi adds a dash of swagger reflecting on his former team's heroics, while The Straits Times’ Deepanraj Ganesan breaks down the significance of the result Could an unprecedented treble truly be a possibility? You best believe it!

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Wheelchair rugby isn’t just a sport — it’s a statement. And on this episode of Sports Minutes, we speak to Edgar Cheong and Sheikh Muhd Danial - two players and change makers driving Singapore’s adaptive sports scene. From spinal injuries to stadium lights, they share how resilience, creativity, and community fuel their lives both on and off the court. And with the Singlife Wheelchair Rugby Cup just around the corner, this is your front-row seat to the passion behind the play.

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From leading Tanjong Pagar to stepping up with Lion City Sailors and earning his first Singapore caps, Akram Azman’s 2025 has been nothing short of remarkable. And on Sports Minutes, he reflects on the whirlwind start to the year - joining a title-chasing squad, adjusting to continental football, and making his mark on the national stage. 

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Ever so often, a footballer emerges who takes the game by storm. With talent and a winner’s mentality, they become the pride of club and country. In Singapore’s women’s football scene, one name stands out—Danelle Tan. At just 20, she’s won trophies with Borussia Dortmund, scored for the Lionesses, and now battles new challenges with Brisbane Roar. Speaking on the sidelines of the Roar's tour of the Lion City - where they will take on the WPL all-stars on 4 April - Danelle shares her journey, her aims and her aspirations.

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From almost hanging up his boots to hitting his best-ever goal tally—Ignatius Ang is having a season to remember. But despite his standout performances for Balestier Khalsa, a national team call-up still eludes him. And on Sports Minutes, we unpack the highs and lows of his journey—his resurgence on the pitch, the motivation he draws from coaching young players, and the reality of Singapore footballers juggling side hustles to secure their futures.

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Netball Singapore is entering a bold new era. With Daniel Ho at the helm as CEO and Tara Steel leading the charge as head coach & technical director, the Vandas are gearing up for an action-packed 2025. And on Sports Minutes, we dive into their vision, the game plan for Singapore’s netball future, and what it will take to elevate the sport. From high-performance strategies to growing the netball community, this is the inside track on the next chapter of Singapore netball. 

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Despite a much-improved effort, Singapore had to settle for point in their Asian Cup Qualifier against Hong Kong - lamenting TWO disallowed goals, and their barren run in finding the net, that has now seen the Lions' draw 4 blanks in their last 5 games. So where to from here for Ogura and co.? We hear from captain Hariss Harun, Ilhan Fandi and Deepanraj Ganesan on Sports Minutes.

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A few days on since Singapore’s 1-0 friendly defeat to Nepal, and it seems like the rhetoric surrounding the National Team has changed for the worst - but is it really all doom and gloom? Perhaps not, with the news of a certain Perry Ng gaining his PR status, and a host of younger Lions making the step up. On today’s show we’ll hear from TWO players who could well and truly breath fresh life and add fresh blood to the Lions  - Perry Ng & Jordan Emaviwe.

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With the 2025 Formula 1 season up and running, Sports Minutes is in conversation with 17-year-old Singaporean racer Kabir Anurag, part of the Alpine Development Team. He shares his journey—from the Winter Series to life with an F1 team, the sacrifices of living abroad, and balancing academics with racing. We also dive into Singapore’s support for motorsport talent and his road ahead. Buckle up for an inspiring ride!

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Forrest Li has officially thrown his hat into the ring in the contest for Singapore football’s top post - as the Football Association of Singapore confirmed that the election to decide the leaders of Singapore football will be held on 28 April 2025. So what next on the timeline to the extraordinary congress? And who could be in the running alongside Li? Deepanraj Ganesan weighs in on this - as well as the National Team's upcoming games, and the Singapore Cup fixtures gone by.

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Newcastle end their 70-year wait for silverware - clinching the English League Cup at the expense of Liverpool, beating them 2-1 at Wembley. And on Sports Minutes, we check in with two jubilant Geordies - Sazali Abdul Aziz & Terrence Ong - and lifelong Liverpool fan - Deborah Rowe - to find out what it means for both camps.

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The Lion City Sailors' dream run in the ACL Two continues, as they defeated Sanfrecce Hiroshima 4-1 on aggregate to book a spot in the last four. This is only the third time a team from Singapore have reached the semi-finals of a continental competition. So how did the Sailors, the only South-east Asian outfit left in Asia’s second-tier club competition, defy the odds to overcome their illustrious opponents? Deepanraj Ganesan speaks to Sports Minutes after a historic night at the Jalan Besar Stadium.

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Did you know that amongst the NINE teams competing in the Singapore Women’s Premier League - there is ONLY ONE that does not have an active men’s team. And that team is Still Aerion Women’s Football Club. Dedicated to female footballers - the club have a roster that includes players who’ve featured in the Women’s World Cup, stars of the Singapore Lionesses past and present, and at the helm have a former S-league winner in Jeremy Chiang. So with all the ingredients in place, can they cook up a storm in 2025? Sports Minutes sits down with...

The Lion City Sailors take centre stage on this episode of Sports Minutes - and for obvious reasons, after the furore surrounding their ACL Two Quarter-final. With the first leg declared a walkover after Sanfrecce Hiroshima's error of fielding an ineligible player, can the Sailors get the job done to secure a historic spot in the Semis? And, could the return of the legendary Kadir Yahya as Unleash the Roar's Director of Football spark a revival for Singapore's footballing fortunes? Deepanraj Ganesan is in the hot seat to dissect and discuss it all!

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This International Women’s Day on Sports Minutes, we talk to Nurhafizah Abu Sujad, Head Physiotherapist for the Singapore National Teams about her journey in a male-dominated field. Sticking true to the theme of IWD 2025 - Accelerating Action - the long-serving physio who is affectionately known as 'Kak Fizah' shares how motherhood has shaped her career, her work empowering athletes, and her mission to break barriers in sports.

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History beckons for the Lion City Sailors this week, as the Singaporean outfit travel to Japan to take on Sanfrecce Hiroshima in the ACL Two Quarter finals. As the ONLY south-east asian team representative left in the competition, how will they fare? What are the key battles and can the Sailors keep themselves alive heading into the second leg? Deepanraj Ganesan dives in to this and the weekend's Singapore Cup results on Sports Minutes.

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When you think of the Women’s Premier League in Singapore, the Lion City Sailors probably come to mind—and for good reason. As the 3-time reigning champions the Sailors often dominate the headlines, and their opposition. But in 2024, two standout individuals from Geylang International stole the spotlight at the WPL Awards. Ratna Suffian was named Coach of the Year, while Farah Nurzahirah picked up Young Player of the Year honours. So, how did they defy expectations? And will they be able to close the gap on reigning champions LCS in 2025? We’ve hear from the both of them on Spo...

Manchester United legend and 13-time Premier League winner Ryan Giggs steps into the Sports Minutes hot seat - reflecting on his illustrious career, Sir Alex Ferguson’s enduring legacy, and the frustration of watching rivals Liverpool rise while his beloved Red Devils struggle to reclaim their former glory. But could Ruben Amorim be the man to turn things around at Old Trafford? Tune in to find out!

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On a SIX-match winning streak in the league, with a SIX-point advantage at the top and a game in hand - the Lion City Sailors are gaining momentum in their pursuit of being crowned champions of the 24/25 Singapore Premier League season. But could the upcoming midweek clash against second-placed BG Tampines Rovers throw a spanner in the works? Deepanraj Ganesan weighs in, and reviews the rest of the action from MD26.

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What would you sacrifice for a dream? For Singaporean boxer Danisha, the answer was everything — breaking a scholarship bond, leaving a stable healthcare career, and stepping into the unknown, all for the love of boxing. And she’s not just chasing medals — she’s fighting for the flag, and fighting to make history. As Singapore’s first boxer in decades to qualify for the Asian Games, Danisha Mathialagan now has her sights set on more. Tune in to hear her incredible journey of grit and glory.

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Singapore’s premier pro wrestling promotion, Grapplemax, is making history with Causeway Jam—a high-octane showdown featuring top talent from both sides of the border. In this episode, co-founder and CEO Greg Ho shares Grapplemax’s journey, its commitment to accessibility, and how it’s shaping the local wrestling scene. We dive into the inspiration behind Causeway Jam, the rivalries to watch, and what first-time fans can expect. Could this be the beginning of a larger regional wrestling circuit? 

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Another week, another VAR debacle. Why does this keep happening in Singapore football, and what can be done to ensure accountability? Plus, could Forrest Li truly be in the running to become FAS President? Deepanraj Ganesan and Zia-ul Raushan get stuck in on Sports Minutes.

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Matt Silva has enjoyed a globetrotting football journey, playing in Canada, Sweden, Portugal, the Philippines, and now Singapore. The 32-year-old recently joined Tanjong Pagar United in the Singapore Premier League and was handed the captain’s armband on his debut. So how did this move came about, what it’s like working under legendary coach Noh Alam Shah, and what are the challenges of adapting to a new league. And could Singapore become more than just another pitstop on his football adventure? The custodian and captain of the Jaguars, Matt Silva, tells all on Sports Minutes.

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