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Solo S'porean supporter spotted in stands during Vietnam AFF match among 15,000 home fans
Hear us (him) roar!
December 31, 2024, 11:55 AM
Among a sea of Vietnamese fans at the Viet Tri Stadium on Dec. 29, 2024, one lone Singaporean stood proudly in the away stands, cheering for the Singapore national football team during the second leg of the Asean Football Championship semi-finals.
According to the Football Association of Singapore, the home crowd was 15,284 strong.
Ultimately, the Lions lost to Vietnam 3 -1, ending their journey in the Asean Football Championship.
Speaking to Mothership, 29-year-old Ong Wee Hern said that his love of football started with his father, who was a Liverpool fan.
"And since we are Singaporeans, it's natural to support our own national team!" Ong added.
He had already booked his flight to Vietnam on Dec. 23 to watch the semi-final match.
He even booked the same hotel as the Singapore team and documented his journey on his Instagram.
Hear us roar
When Ong arrived at the away side of the stadium, he felt quite awkward being the only person there.
However, he was excited to be in the Viet Tri Stadium, one of the venues for the 31st Southeast Asian Games when Vietnam hosted.
During the second half of the game, another Singapore supporter joined Ong in the stands.
Video via Do Kim Phuc/Facebook
Some Vietnam fans approached him, noticing his dedication to Team Singapore.
Video via Do Kim Phuc/Facebook
Speaking about the Lions' performance in the match, Ong said that the team made him proud to be a Singaporean, though he felt the team could improve in certain areas.
For any Team Singapore supporters wondering if they should support the Lions during away games, Ong advises taking the leap of faith.
"Don't let fear hold us back and take the leap of faith. There is always solutions to inconveniences along the way," he said.
End of the road for the Lions
The loss in Vietnam ended the Lions' journey in the Asean Football Championship.
Singapore trailed 2-0 in the first leg of the semi-finals, but the 3-1 loss eventually led to a 5-1 aggregate defeat.
Head coach Tsutomu Ogura praised the team, stating that the players were able "to show our football".
"They are improving game by game, and I am very proud of them."
He added that he was also satisfied that he could show fans in Singapore that while Vietnam was a good team, the Lions kept fighting.
Singapore captain Hariss Harun also noted how the team have come a long way since the start of the tournament.
He also thanked the fans for their support.
“The fans have been wonderful, and their support means a lot to us. We may not be perfect, but I think they can see the fighting spirit of the boys. It’s really nice to see them backing us and I hope this will continue."
Next on the agenda for the Lions is the AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers, which begin on Mar. 25, 2025, when Singapore will face Hong Kong.
Top photos via Ong Wee Hern/Instagram
