Singapore will take a 23-player U23 squad to the 2026 Gia Lai VTV Cup, with overseas experience alongside a younger group of prospects. VFF lists three goalkeepers, seven defenders, nine midfielders and four forwards for a programme against Qatar, hosts Vietnam and Thailand.
The squad announcement adds a clearer picture of Vietnam's opposition beyond the earlier confirmation of the participating teams.
Portuguese experience and regional background
Khairin Nadim Bin Rahim made his Singapore Premier League debut at 15. Born in 2004, he played for Young Lions and Lion City Sailors before joining Portugal's FC Vizela in February 2025. VFF also records his involvement in the 2021, 2023 and 2025 SEA Games.
Muhammad Asis Ijlalil Bin Junaidi, another 2004-born player, has also spent time in Portuguese football. Amir Syafiz Bin Abdul Rashid brings leadership experience after captaining Singapore's U23 side during preparations for the 2026 Asian U23 qualifiers.
A test for younger members
The group also includes players born in 2007 and 2008. VFF highlights Sarvin Raj, Harith Danish, Jaden Heng Kai Jian and Andy Reefqy, while goalkeeper Firman Nabil Bin Mohamad Faizal has previously been called up for Asian U23 qualifying. The combination gives the coaching staff an opportunity to assess depth and how different age groups work together.
Singapore open against Qatar at 15:00 on 10 November, face Vietnam at 19:00 on 12 November and finish against Thailand at 15:00 on 14 November. All times are Vietnam time. For the hosts, the second match offers a direct assessment against this blend of experience and emerging talent. Readers can follow Vietnam national team fixtures for the national sides' upcoming programme.
