Singapore prepare for Paraguay and Brazil tests ahead of Asian Cup
Coach Gavin Lee wants the friendlies to expose areas for improvement as the Lions prepare for the rescheduled 2027 continental tournament.
Singapore coach Gavin Lee sees upcoming friendlies against Paraguay and Brazil as a chance to assess his team's readiness for tougher opposition before the 2027 Asian Cup. The Lions face Paraguay on Nov 13 and host Brazil at the National Stadium on Nov 17.
Ranked No. 149 in the world, Singapore will meet No. 33 Paraguay and No. 6 Brazil in the Mizuho Blue Challenge – The Kallang Football Series Singapore. Japan are also participating, with matches against Brazil on Nov 14 and Paraguay on Nov 17.
Lee, 36, said the demanding fixtures should reveal which elements of Singapore's game hold up under pressure and which require improvement. He said preparations remained focused on what his players could control, despite the unusual opportunity to face Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti.
Singapore secured Asian Cup qualification for the first time and will face Australia, Iraq and Tajikistan in Group D. The tournament has been moved from January to December 2027 because of continuing security concerns in Saudi Arabia. Lee said the delay had not altered his approach to the friendlies.
The longer wait has given players more time to compete for selection. Geylang International captain Joshua Pereira, 29, has returned to the 24-man squad after last representing Singapore in March 2023. Midfielder Joel Chew, 26, is also seeking more playing time and hopes to earn an Asian Cup starting place.
