The Singapore Premier League title is perhaps slipping away from BG Tampines Rovers, following a mid-season slump that saw the Stags go six games without a win, but a good Singapore Cup campaign is providing Kyoga Nakamura with renewed source of optimism - and a chance to end the season on a high. 

Having topped Group A with three wins and a draw, Tampines will face former Thai League 1 champions BG Pathum United in the semi-finals, with the first leg set to take place at the Jalan Besar Stadium on Wednesday, 16 April. 

The Rabbits have crucially displayed a knack for overturning unfavourable scorelines in the tournament, having battled from behind in each of their four group games to secure two wins and two draws – second only behind group-winners Lion City Sailors. Their resolute spirit serves as a warning that this will be far from an easy clash, but with Tampines riding high on their recent form, Kyoga firmly believes that his side has what it takes to overcome this challenge.

“We had a good run in the group stages, but I would say that we are just getting started,” declared Kyoga, who signed for the club in February 2019. 

“It will be a tough game, but we go into each game with that same winning mentality no matter who the opponents are, and we will give our maximum efforts to get the result we desire.” 

Having experienced the heartbreak of losing the Singapore Cup final to Hougang United in 2022 and falling short in the semi-finals against the Sailors last year - Kyoga is more determined than ever to help Tampines end their silverware drought. 

The Stags’ last trophy came in this very competition back in 2019, when they edged out the now-defunct Warriors FC 4-3 in a thrilling final.

“We have definitely come a long way both individually and as a team since that final loss against Hougang,” explained Kyoga. “Many of our players that year are currently still in the squad, and now that we have another opportunity to go far in the cup, we will ensure that we are ready to go all the way and lift it this year.” 

Now in his fifth year at the club, Kyoga has witnessed how the various experiences that the club has been through over the years have strengthened the overall character and maturity of the squad. 

“I can say that this year’s team is the best that we’ve had since I joined the club,” said Kyoga. “We have a really good blend of experience and talent, and many of the young players back then are now starting regularly for the Singapore national team. The intensity in training is always high as we all treat it like an actual match, and that competitiveness ensures that everybody in the squad is sharp and ready to contribute.” 

A major driving force behind the Stags this season has been the unwavering support of their faithful support group - The Yellow Knights, as Kyoga emphasised the crucial boost they provide to the players on the field.

“It’s always an honor to play in front of them,” he described. “They always create an incredible atmosphere which never fails to lift us on the pitch. We’ve been through some tough moments together over the years – but right now we have a real chance of winning the Singapore Cup, so I want to urge them to continue supporting and cheering us on.”