Chaos at Jalan Besar: Headbutts, Neck‑Grabs, and a Touch of Drama
The Singapore Premier League match between Lion City Sailors and Tampines Rovers ended with a 2‑1 win for the Sailors on Sunday evening. What should have been a normal post‑match handshake turned into a scene straight out of an action movie.
From a Clean Finish to a Brawl
- Kim Do‑hoon – Sailors head coach, 52, was seen allegedly pushing Tampines assistant coach Mustafic Fahrudin’s face in a moment of heated competition.
- Mustafic Fahrudin – 41, a former Singapore midfield star, was left clutching his face after the headbutt.
- The referee handed Kim a yellow card before play resumed, but the tension lingered.
The Incident and Immediate Aftermath
After the match, both teams shook hands, only to have the drama resume on the sidelines. Players from each side engaged in shoving and scuffling, with the atmosphere swirling between the two benches.
Key Moment: Fahrudin allegedly grabbed Kim by the neck on the Sailors’ bench. Witnesses claim the 41-year‑old car-wheeled the former South Korean striker in a move that could have been mis‑interpreted as a friendly hug gone wrong.
Organisations Step In
- Tampines Rovers: The club lodged an incident report, accusing the Sailors coach of headbutting.
- Chairman Desmond Ong: He declined to comment on whether a police report had indeed been filed.
- Lion City Sailors: CEO Chew Chun‑Liang issued a statement expressing regret. “The scenes that unfolded at Jalan Besar do not reflect the spirit of Singapore football. We’re taking action to prevent repeats of such behaviour,” he said.
What the Statements Say
“Both teams contributed to the scenes, but we must expect better of ourselves,” Chew added. “We’re conducting internal investigations and are committed to maintaining the high standards our fans expect on and off the field.”
The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) acknowledged the incidents, stating that it will review videos and report from the match commissioner. Pavnish News has requested updates from FAS about their evaluations.
Back to the Game
Despite the drama, the match itself was a thrilling showcase. Sailors led the league and secured a late victory thanks to a goal from defender Pedro Henrique. Earlier, Song Ui‑young opened the score, and Tampines’ Taufik Suparno salvaged a draw with a goal just 13 minutes before full‑time. The roller coaster of emotions that followed—both on and off the field—reminded everyone that football isn’t just about the 90 minutes of play but also the moments that define the sport’s spirit.
In the end, the incident serves as a stern reminder: in a game that brings people together, temper and respect should win over tempers. The clubs are now huddling together with a new mission: to keep the focus on football while ensuring that the beloved sport remains a safe and respectful arena for all.
<img alt="" data-caption="Tampines Rover’s forward, Boris Kopitovic being held back as Sailors coach Kim Do-hoon (far right) turns away.
PHOTO: The Straits Times” data-entity-type=”file” data-entity-uuid=”36b608a9-356a-4bc1-84fc-b9ed593838da” src=”/sites/default/files/inline-images/football2.JPG”/>
Henrique’s Last‑Minute Magic Brings the Sailors Home
Who Took the Match Back?
- When the game was hanging in the balance, defender Henrique did a full‑back sprint, turning the tables with a slick counter‑attack.
- And then, the substitute Maxime Lestienne capped it off by blasting a thunderous cross right into the back of the net.
- The goal came deep into added time, making it a winner that felt like a lucky charm.
What It Means for the League
After two chilly draws, the Sailors celebrated a fresh victory – and a five‑point lead over the second‑placed Albirex Niigata. That boost is a huge morale lift heading into Friday’s top‑of‑the‑table clash.
Originally from The Straits Times – reproduction requires permission.
