Singapore coach Ogura resigns months before Asian Cup qualifiers against India

Tsutomu Ogura has resigned from his post as the head coach of the men’s national team of Singapore, the country’s football association said in a statement on Tuesday.

“The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) announces that Mr. Tsutomu Ogura has decided to step down from his position as Head Coach of the Singapore National Team, with immediate effect, due to personal reasons,” the FAS said.

Ogura, 58, is the third consecutive Japanese coach in charge of Singapore, succeeding Takayuki Nishigaya, who was fired in January 2024, who had previously taken over from Tatsuma Yoshida, who quit in 2021.

He was also the director of the under-22 men’s team.

“Mr. Ogura informed the FAS of his decision several weeks ago, citing the need to return to his home country to attend to pressing personal matters. Since then, the FAS Executive Committee has been in close consultation with Mr. Ogura to explore various avenues to facilitate his continued tenure,” the FAS added.

“Despite collective efforts and a mutual desire to sustain the working relationship, the nature of the personal issues involved ultimately made it untenable for him to continue.”

Ogura leaves after guiding the Lions to consecutive victories in June, a 3-1 win over the Maldives in an international friendly on June 5, and a 2-1 away win over Bangladesh in the Asian Cup qualifier five days later.

Singapore will next play India in consecutive Asian Cup qualifiers, at home and away, on October 9 and 14, respectively.

The FAS has appointed Gavin Lee, former Head Coach of BG Tampines Rovers FC, to lead the Singapore while the it looks for a new permanent head coach.