Singapore's women's national football team secured third place and a spot in the 2027 ASEAN Women’s Championship following a penalty shootout victory over Cambodia on July 22 at the Kuala Lumpur Stadium. The decisive moment came from 19-year-old goalkeeper Izairida Shakira, who made two crucial saves during the shootout, including the final stop of Sovanmony Heng’s penalty, ensuring a 4-3 win for the Lionesses.

Singapore’s triumph marked a significant turnaround from a recent heavy 5-0 defeat to the same Cambodian side in a friendly match the previous month. Despite being ranked 15th compared to Cambodia’s 13th globally, Singapore managed to keep the opposition largely in check, though Cambodia dominated possession and created more chances early on.

The solitary goal in regular time was scored by centre-back Umairah Hamdan in the 24th minute. Hamdan launched a long ball that found forward Danelle Tan, who controlled it expertly before delivering a clinical finish. Cambodia responded late in the match with a penalty converted by Vipha Soeurn in the 74th minute, which sent the game into penalties.

During the shootout, Singapore maintained composure, with Sarah Zu’risqah converting the fifth and decisive spot-kick that put her team ahead before Izairida’s final save sealed the victory. Zu’risqah attributed the team’s composure and success to their collective resolve and camaraderie developed throughout the tournament.

Head coach Mihoko Ishida commended her players for their resilience and tactical discipline, especially in defending set pieces, an area identified as vulnerable in their earlier defeat to Cambodia. "The players didn’t give up, and that hard work, including Izairida’s outstanding saves, contributed greatly to the result," Ishida said.

Singapore’s journey to third place included topping their group with a 1-1 draw against Laos and a historic 3-1 win over Malaysia — their first against their neighbors in seven meetings — before a 2-0 semi-final loss to Indonesia. Indonesia went on to retain the championship title with a 5-0 win over Laos in the final.

Looking ahead to the ASEAN Women’s Championship, Ishida indicated plans to review the team's tactics to build on their campaign’s positives. "The players have great character and personality, so there’s a lot of belief now and it’s a fresh start from here," she said.

For Izairida, the qualification is just the beginning. “There’s a lot of work to do,” she said, emphasizing the importance of injury prevention and maintaining energy levels throughout future matches. She expressed her satisfaction in reaching this stage alongside her teammates and staff as they prepare for the regional championship next year.