Safuwan and Faisal’s Heartwarming Reunion Steals Spotlight Before Malaysia-Singapore Match

Rivalries between Singapore and Malaysia have always been fierce on the football pitch, but before the whistle blew at Bukit Jalil National Stadium on Thursday (4 September), fans witnessed a moment that showed friendship can outlast competition.

Former Teammates Reunite in Players’ Tunnel Before Kickoff

In a video shared by Astro Arena on Instagram, Singapore centre-back and defensive midfielder Safuwan Baharudin, and Malaysia’s winger Faisal Halim were seen embracing warmly in the players’ tunnel.

The two footballers once played side by side for Selangor FC and Pahang FA, and their reunion carried deep meaning.

The Wholesome Video

Though no conversation was recorded clearly, Safuwan was seen hugging and gently patting Faisal’s chest several times, with Faisal smiling and laughing in the video.

According to reports, Faisal has endured a series of personal challenges in recent years — he was the victim of an acid attack in 2024 that left scars on his face, and is also currently going through divorce proceedings.

Safuwan’s Words After the Match

Following Singapore’s 2-1 defeat, Safuwan spoke about the exchange with Faisal in an interview with Astro Arena’s Zulhelmi Zainal Azam.

“I wish him all the best,” said Safuwan.

“It’s not about his personal life, it’s more about remembering the time we shared together at Selangor. I haven’t seen them for a long time since I left.”

Safuwan also turned his attention to the game itself, acknowledging that Malaysia looked stronger than in previous meetings.

He described this current Malaysian side as one of the strongest he had seen in recent years, but stated that it was just a friendly, with both teams giving their best efforts, Stadium Astro reported.

Malaysia Edges Singapore in a Heated Friendly

On the field, Malaysia claimed a 2-1 victory in the FIFA ‘A’ international match, according to the Football Association of Singapore (FAS).

Singapore interim head coach Gavin Lee admitted mistakes were costly but took heart in his team’s second-half response, noting there were good phases of play despite a lack of composure in key moments.

Next Stop: Myanmar Friendly Before Asian Cup Qualifiers

The Lions will next face Myanmar in a closed-door friendly on Tuesday (9 September) as part of their preparations for the upcoming AFC Asian Cup qualifiers against India in October.