Singapore captain Hariss Harun is hoping to lead the Lions to a fifth ASEAN Hyundai Cup title as the tournament celebrates its 30th anniversary, with the veteran midfielder believing the team is heading in the right direction.
SINGAPORE, July 23: Singapore captain Hariss Harun believes the Lions are ready to challenge for a fifth ASEAN Hyundai Cup™ title as the tournament celebrates its 30th anniversary.
Hariss, who has experienced Singapore’s greatest triumphs and toughest periods over the past two decades, is preparing to play a leading role as the four-time champions begin their campaign in Group A.
The Lions open their campaign against Cambodia at Morodok Techo National Stadium on Friday before hosting Timor-Leste at Jalan Besar Stadium next Monday.
They will then travel to Hanoi to face defending champions Vietnam on July 31 before concluding the group stage against Indonesia at home on Aug 7.
Singapore have not won the regional title since 2012, when Hariss was part of the squad that lifted the trophy, although an injury during the group stage cut short his campaign.
Now the most-capped Singapore international with 148 appearances, the veteran midfielder believes the Lions are enjoying renewed confidence following their successful AFC Asian Cup qualifying campaign.
“There’s a real feel-good factor around football in Singapore at the moment,” said Hariss.
“Over the past few months, we’ve seen the fans come out in full force to support the team, and that’s been a great feeling.”
Singapore head coach Gavin Lee also highlighted Hariss’ leadership and influence as the Lions prepare for the tournament.
“The stability he provides off the pitch is the same stability you see from him on the pitch, and that’s so important for the team,” said Lee.
Hariss made his senior international debut at the age of 16 in 2007 and has since established himself as one of the region’s most experienced defensive midfielders.
Despite being in his mid-30s, the Lion City Sailors FC midfielder remains determined to continue representing his country.
“It’s always an honour to captain the national team and to play in this tournament,” said Hariss.
“As long as I’m able to give 100 per cent, stay focused and be ready, I’ll always answer the call.”
The ASEAN Hyundai Cup™, launched in Singapore in 1996, begins on Friday with an opening ceremony in Phnom Penh before Cambodia face Singapore and defending champions Vietnam take on Timor-Leste.
