Singapore football captain Hariss Harun has become the nation’s most-capped player after making his 148th appearance for the Lions in a 4-0 victory over Mongolia.
The historic milestone came on May 31 at Jalan Besar Stadium, where the 35-year-old midfielder surpassed former defender Daniel Bennett’s long-standing record.
Singapore marked the occasion with a convincing win, as goals from Safuwan Baharudin, Song Uiyoung, Shawal Anuar and Ikhsan Fandi secured victory over the visitors.
Speaking after the match, according to FAS, Hariss described the achievement as something he never expected when he first pulled on the national jersey almost two decades ago.
“When you’re a young boy, you just dream of putting on the red shirt and playing at the National Stadium,” he said.
He added that reaching 148 caps was never something he imagined as a teenager breaking into the national setup.
Nearly Two Decades in the Red Jersey
Hariss made his senior international debut in 2007 at the age of 16 and has since become one of the defining figures of Singapore football.
Looking back on his career, he explained that his focus had always been on earning the next call-up rather than chasing records.
According to Hariss, he approached every season and every match individually, never thinking about how many appearances he would eventually accumulate.
“It’s been a long journey, stretching all the way back to 2007 when I made my debut.”
The veteran midfielder also dedicated the milestone to those who supported him throughout his career.
“I’m really grateful, especially to the people that matter to me in my life, in my career, my family. They’ve been there throughout, through thick and thin.”
Fans Rise to Celebrate Historic Moment
The occasion was marked by a crowd of 4,234 supporters at Jalan Besar Stadium.
When Hariss was substituted in the 76th minute, fans rose to their feet to applaud the captain as he left the field.
Lions head coach Gavin Lee was among those paying tribute to the midfielder’s achievement.
Lee said Hariss had displayed exceptional focus and determination since his younger days, qualities that ultimately helped him reach the record.
“Everyone, from players to staff, are delighted for him. If there is one person who deserves this milestone, it is him.”
The coach added that Hariss continues to set standards for younger players through both his actions and leadership.
Already Looking Ahead to Bigger Challenges
Despite the celebrations, Hariss made it clear that his attention is now on Singapore’s upcoming fixtures and preparations for the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027.
The Lions will next face a sterner test against China after their comfortable win over Mongolia.
Reflecting on the match, Hariss said Singapore controlled proceedings from start to finish and produced an encouraging performance.
“But we need to bring this performance to the next game. It will be a tougher opposition.”
He also noted that while recent results have generated optimism around the national team, there remains significant work to be done before the Asian Cup.
According to Hariss, the squad must continue improving and raise their intensity if they hope to compete against stronger opponents on the continental stage.
A New Chapter in Singapore Football History
Hariss now stands alone as Singapore’s most-capped footballer with 148 international appearances.
Across nearly two decades, he has represented the country through multiple generations of players and remains a key figure in the national setup.
For Hariss, however, the milestone is not a conclusion but another step in an ongoing journey.
“It’s not over yet,” he said.
“Still a lot to play for, a lot to look forward to.”
Watch videos here:
@fasingapore Take a piece of history home.🤩 Special commemorative pins celebrating Hariss Harun’s 148th cap are yours for free upon entrance — first come, first served for the first 148 fans at each entrance! @playbackasia Gates open at 5.30PM tomorrow at Jalan Besar Stadium. Don’t miss out!
@ashfutbolita A true Singapore football legend. 🇸🇬👏 Singapore captain Hariss Harun reached another incredible milestone today, becoming the nation’s most-capped player with 148 international appearances. An achievement that reflects years of leadership, consistency, and dedication to the national team. #sgsports #sgnews #harissharun
@fasingapore “Never in my wildest dreams.” ❤️ From his debut in 2007 to last night – Hariss Harun reflects on 148 caps and the Lions’ commanding 4-0 win over Mongolia 🇸🇬
More from Wake Up Singapore:-
AFC Asian Cup Draw Reveals Exciting Matches Awaiting Singapore Lions Next January
If you have a story or a tip-off, email admin@wakeup.sg or get in touch via Whatsapp at 8882 5913.
Interested in advertising on our media channels? Reach out to us at admin@wakeup.sg!
Since you have made it to the end of the article, follow Wake Up Singapore on Telegram and X!
Wake Up Singapore is a volunteer-run site that covers alternative views in Singapore. If you want to volunteer with us, sign up here!
