Despite their enthusiasm, the transition into Japanese football culture was fraught with challenges. “It took us nearly two months to break into the team culture,” Isa explained. “The language barrier and various other factors were quite frustrating. However, we are incredibly grateful to Hiroshi Yofuko, the club’s head coach, who took the time to understand us and gradually introduced us to the team.”
“The level of Southeast Asia and in particular Singapore is improving with each passing year. Within this maelstrom that is Singapore Football, I believe I can contribute to its growth with my experience. I do think that this is a worthwhile league to be in and as time goes on, you can expect more international footballers featuring in the SPL”
the AFC Cup after a brilliant start to the campaign. Towards the end of the season, the Cheetahs imploded and were made to rue their chances. However, Anders and his teammates were not about to let last season’s mishaps repeat this year.
“Last year, there were many cliques within Hougang United, and we weren’t united as a unit. This year, it’s been completely different. I feel like we are one team, where all of us have good chemistry, and we will fight for each other”
“It seems to fit well on the back of various jerseys with the players’ names sitting just below the number as compared to the traditional style we see in popular leagues like the EPL, LaLiga or the Serie A. Instead, we have a huge heat pressed logo of the league’s principal sponsor – AIA”
“However, underneath all those little achievements, I did have many challenges playing in different environment and adapting to different cultures. Over the years, I think I have come out stronger and more committed. I started to value and appreciate what I have worked hard for.”
Apart from the extensive media coverage on Japanese football, another extremely encouraging sight was the turnout of Urawa Reds football fans watching the training session. There were easily 100 football fans, ranging from young boys to school girls and up to retiring elderly, at the mini grandstand eagerly waiting for their favourite players to say hi to them.
Since last season, more than 10 players from the Academy have progressed to the first team, and many have even went on to play in Europe and subsequently the World Cup. Interestingly, some of the futsal pitches at Redsland are actually built using the transfer fees from some of the players’ move to Europe.
