Countdown to NexLions Cup (Part Two) - The "Nursery" and Local Pride

(This entry is formulated based on the media release obtained via CROWD Pte Ltd, the PR agency of “NexLions Cup” together with the images being provided, unless credited)

Coach Aide is confident of his team (file picture)

With his squad's opening game to face a team that comprised no less than four players with Europa League's experience, Singapore Youth Selection coach Aide Iskandar is unfazed of the challenge ahead posed by Liverpool Academy side in the upcoming Nex Lions Cup.

Much of that confidence stemmed from the match that the former Lions' skipper's boys drew 2-2 with Johor FA side, who is coached by another ex-Singapore skipper, the legendary Fandi Ahmad at Larkin Stadium in Johor Bahru days ago.

Said coach Aide:"I have seen the squad list for Liverpool and I understand that they are bringing a strong squad for the NexLions Cup,"

"We will have a tough game on our hands against them, but I think that the team is well prepared and ready for the challenge.

"The boys are looking forward to play against a quality side in the form of Liverpool for the opening match of the tournament, and I am sure that they will give their all during the two matches."added the former Hougang United coach.

Coach Aide put his players through the paces (picture credit: FAS)

The final squad of 25 players included players mainly from Courts Young Lions and the National Football Academy (NFA) that boasted the likes of YOG stars such as Jeffrey Lightfoot, Ammirul Emmran and players with Lions' experience in defender Delwinder Singh, Raihan Rahman and Shafiq Ghani.

As compared to their fellow European counterparts, Portuguese giants Sporting Lisbon came with a squad that is relatively unknown to Singapore fans.

Nonetheless, with its proud track record in churning household names such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Luis Figo should tell a thing or two what to expect from strikers Alexandre Guedes and Carlos Mané who were being singled out in the official media release.

The Sporting Lisbon Youth Team for the NexLions Cup

 “We are looking forward to the challenge of pitting our young players against some of the best up-and-coming talents of world football at the NexLions Cup." said Sporting U19 coach Abel Ferreira who is leading the squad to the Republic.

"No doubt it will be tough against Manchester United in our opening match, but I’m confident that my boys will be up for it."said the former Sporting player himself.

The Verde-e-Brancos will kick start their campaign against Manchester United, while Singapore will facing Liverpool in another match on the 14th of December.

Tickets starting at just $12 are now available at Ticketbooth outlets and online (www.ticketbooth.com.sg).

All matches will be played at the Jalan Besar Stadium.