KUALA LUMPUR — Singapore national head coach Tsutomu Ogura has praised Hariss Harun as the game-changer in their goalless draw against Malaysia, which secured their spot as Group A runners-up in the Asean Cup semi-finals.
The Japan-born coach praised Hariss’ leadership, both on and off the pitch, as a cornerstone of the team’s success in the group stages.
“He’s a player who leads by example, and having him in the team makes my job easier,” Ogura said.
“His presence on the pitch is enough to make the entire team better. Even today, playing against a tough opponent like Malaysia, he was our game-changer.”
Ogura, who took charge of Singapore in February, highlighted the midfielder’s ability to inspire younger players, describing his influence in the dressing room as “crucial.”
“His influence in the dressing room is really significant, and it’s crucial for the young players in our team, who can learn a lot from him,” Ogura added.
The coach also commended his squad’s overall performance, praising their game intelligence and adaptability.
“I also want to give credit to my other players for their great game intelligence. They understood exactly what I wanted. Sometimes, I feel like I don’t even need to coach them because they can handle things themselves.
“Today’s game was an eye-opener for me, as I believe that, as a coach, I should also give the freedom and creativity for my players to add to their game.
“Hopefully, with Hariss’ presence and the team’s energy, we can move forward in this tournament,” he added.
The Lions needed just a point from the match to advance to their seventh semi-final appearance in the tournament’s history.
Despite Malaysia’s relentless attempts to break through, Singapore, ranked 160th in the FIFA rankings, dominated the second half with their counter-attacking football.
Hariss, who came on as a substitute, delivered several incisive through balls, including one to Faris Ramli, whose pace troubled the Malaysian defence.
The match, which drew 31,127 fans to Bukit Jalil National Stadium, ended with Malaysia’s Ultras Malaya chanting frustrations toward the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) over the national team’s continued struggles in regional tournaments.
For Harun, the result was another feather in his cap. The seasoned midfielder, who has 135 international caps, is no stranger to Malaysian football, having spent seven successful years with Johor Darul Ta’zim (2014–2021).
Singapore, last crowned Asean Cup champions in 2012, will now prepare for a two-legged semi-final against the winner of Group B, scheduled for December 26 and 29. — December 21, 2024