Remembering Mat Noh: Singapore’s Glorious Football Legend
A Star Lights Up the Pitch, Then Returns to His Faith
Singapore mourns again as former national football icon Mohamed Noh Hussein, lovingly called “Mat Noh”, passed away on the morning of Monday, 20 September, at the age of 67. The resilient winger, who graced the forward line in the 1970s, had a heart attack Sunday night and was in critical condition at Sengkang General Hospital before he finally slipped away.
From Match-Winning Dribbles to National Glory
- Hero of 1977 – Mat Noh was a key member of Singapore’s celebrated 1977 Malaysia Cup‑winning squad and famously nailed the winning penalty in the first round of World Cup qualifiers against a top Malaysian side.
- Face of the Team – His blend of good looks, silky dribbling, and stellar skill turned him into an unofficial poster boy for the Lions.
- Royal Football Tribute – The Football Association of Singapore posted a heartfelt message on Facebook, expressing deep condolences and remembering his extraordinary contributions on the field.
Life Off the Field: Love, Faith, and Quiet Wisdom
After a 4‑0 loss to Selangor in the 1981 Malaysia Cup final, Mat Noh quietly retired from active football. He later married local music star Rahimah Rahim, but the couple ended their 11‑year marriage in 1988. When he passed, Rahimah expressed her prayers, wishing him “to be placed among the righteous.”
Friendships and Final Words
Former Lions striker Ho Kwang Hock, who shared a friendship with Mat Noh since their youth, described him as a disciplined, humble athlete. He remembered the Mat Noh as the “uncles blue‑eyed boy” who worked hard and left the limelight to focus on simply giving his all to the game.
Ho shared that Mat Noh was a “gentleman” who never sought publicity, preferring instead to let his performance speak for itself. Though he had planned to meet up with old teammates like Quah Kim Song, fate prevented it.
Legacy of Insight and Generosity
Former goalkeeper Yakob Hashim recalled how his 17‑year‑old self—just starting with the national team—benefited from Mat Noh’s counsel. He was told that fleeting fame should not be the end goal; instead, one should prepare for life after football.
Yakob went on to join the police force, crediting Mat Noh’s advice for guiding him toward a balanced family life and a sturdy career after the beautiful game. He expressed heartfelt gratitude for owning their friendship.
Final Farewell
The Straits Times first featured this touching tribute. While we honor a man who once brought an entire nation cheering from the stadium, we also remember his quiet, faith‑filled journey that inspires us all to cherish each moment—both on and off the field.
