The 6-0 result marked Singapore's worst loss to Malaysia at the senior level since 1978, a margin that ended the Lions' inaugural campaign in the FIFA ASEAN Cup. Bergson da Silva led the charge with a hat-trick, while Stuart Wilkin, Paulo Josue, and Syahir Bashah added goals to complete the rout at Si Jalak Harupat Stadium in Bandung.
This defeat serves as a sobering reality check for the squad just three months before the Asian Cup. Coach Gavin Lee noted that while the match did not feel like a six-goal gap on the pitch, the team failed to do what was necessary to remain in contention. The result leaves Singapore third in Group A with three points, missing out on the final stages of the tournament.
Malaysia, despite their dominant performance, also failed to secure a spot in the final, finishing second in the group behind Indonesia on goal difference. The Lions struggled throughout the match as Malaysia pushed aggressively for goals after establishing their early lead.
Looking ahead, Malaysia is expected to compete in the Division 1 third-place play-off on October 5, likely against Vietnam. Singapore concludes their tournament journey following this final group stage encounter.