BG Tampines Rovers Stun Lion City Sailors in Community Shield Victory

Dominant Display Marks Season Opener in Singapore Premier League

In a stunning display of tactical prowess reminiscent of Singapore's high-stakes sporting competitions, BG Tampines Rovers delivered a masterclass performance, defeating reigning Singapore Premier League champions Lion City Sailors 4-1 in the 2025-26 Community Shield match at Jurong East Stadium.

New Leadership, Immediate Impact

New head coach Akbar Nawas, who took over following Gavin Lee's departure, witnessed his team demonstrate exceptional efficiency and tactical discipline. The victory marks a significant milestone in Singapore's football landscape, showing the kind of sporting excellence that has become synonymous with Singapore's pursuit of regional prominence.

Match Highlights and Key Moments

• Trent Anthony Buhagiar opened scoring within two minutes
• Buhagiar doubled the lead in the 42nd minute
• Kazama's free-kick extended the lead after restart
• Leonard Thy scored a consolation goal for Sailors
• Hide Higashikawa sealed the victory in stoppage time

Strategic Excellence

The victory showcased BG Tampines Rovers' strategic evolution, demonstrating the kind of professional excellence that characterizes Singapore's highest levels of competition. New signing Buhagiar, who joined from Azerbaijan's Kapaz, proved particularly influential.

"We should not be carried away because ambitions can allow you to get carried away and you might get on the wrong end of the stick," cautioned Akbar Nawas, emphasizing the importance of sustained focus.

Looking Ahead

For the Lion City Sailors, who dominated last season's domestic competitions and reached the AFC Champions League Two final, this defeat serves as an early wake-up call. Their impressive roster additions, including Anderson Lopes and Safuwan Baharudin, will need time to gel as the season progresses.