The resurgent Singapore Lions banked on their rejuvenated offense, scoring two goals in just one minute to edge 2018 semifinalist Philippine Azkals, 2-1, in group action of the 2020 AFF Suzuki Cup at the Singapore National Stadium on Wednesday.

Playing 4-3-3, the Lions utilized superior speed and agility to frustrate the lackadaisical Azkals in the first half, hitting two shots on goal all saved by goalkeeper Kevin Mendoza Hansen.

The Azkals regained composure in the second half and dominated possessions henceforth but Singapore maintained their hot streak in counterattacks.

At the 62nd minute, the Lions earned a corner kick, which landed on Safuwan Baharudin who issued a header pass to his unguarded team captain Hariss Harun, who easily sank a point-blank header.

Harun, the most capped active player of Singapore, scored his eleventh international goal.
A minute later, wing defender Zulqarnaen Suzliman intercepted the casual run of young Azkal Oliver Bias, issuing a right-wing cross to Faris Ramli, who struck his tenth international goal.

The Azkals replied with a goal from former Sweden U-21 Amin Nazari, who sank a header in heavy traffic off Kevin Ingreso’s corner kick at the 69th minute.

It was Nazari’s first international goal in his second cap for the Azkals.

The Azkals tried but failed to level the score but three shots on goal from substitute forward Angel Guirado were too soft, landing easily on the hands of goalkeeper Hassan Sunny.
Defender Justin Baas likewise had a clear shot on goal at the 88th minute but fellow defender Irfan Fandi nipped his strike.

The Lions now have two wins after blanking Myanmar, 3-0, last Sunday and are now leading Group A.

The Azkals will next face winless Timor-Leste on Saturday, 5:30 PM.

The top two group finishers will advance in the home-and-away semifinals.