Our AFF Suzuki Cup preview tells you where the game will be won and lost

The nifty opponents have been put away, at least for now.

Singapore’s football team, so often characterized by their physical game, will have their path to lifting a fourth AFF Cup blocked by the equally physical Philippines.

The dates are set – this Saturday in Manila before the second leg on Wednesday, 12 Dec at the Jalan Besar Stadium.

Lions outgoing head coach Raddy Avramovic has commented that his side often struggle against small, quick opposition, even if they’re the 177th-ranked Laos.

The Azkals of the Philippines are helped in the size department by a squad consisting more than 20 European- and American-born players.

Singapore’s recent record against the former minnows also isn’t cause for optimism, losing back-to-back friendlies 0-2 and 0-1 in Sep and last month, a first for the Lions.

What are the individual battles to watch? Who are the key men for the Azkals? Click on for our semi-final preview.

RELATED

Singapore 3-0 Malaysia

Singapore 0-1 Indonesia

Singapore 4-3 Laos

Suzuki Cup (In)Famous Incidents

21 Players to Watch at Suzuki Cup