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Ogura steps down as Singapore coach
Singapore: Tsutomu Ogura has resigned from his position as head coach of the Singapore national team with immediate effect due to personal reasons, the Football Association of Singapore announced on Tuesday.
News of the 61-year-old Japanese coach’s departure comes two weeks after Singapore’s 2-1 win over Bangladesh in the third round of qualifying for the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ took the nation to the top of the standings in Group C after two matches.

“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,” the FAS said in a statement on its official website.

“Since then, the FAS Executive Committee has been in close consultation with Mr. Ogura to explore various avenues to facilitate his continued tenure."
“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.

“The FAS respects Mr. Ogura’s decision and extends its sincere appreciation for his professionalism, commitment, and contribution to Singapore football during his time at the helm.”
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The former Omiya Ardija coach had been in charge in Singapore since February last year and took the Singaporeans to the semi-finals of the ASEAN Football Federation Championship, where they lost to eventual champions Vietnam in December.

Ogura has been replaced on an interim basis by former Tampines Rovers coach Gavin Lee until a new full time appointment is made.

Singapore’s next competitive fixture will be against India on October 9 in qualifying for the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027. The country is attempting to secure a berth at the continental championship for the first time since featuring as hosts in 1984.

Photos: AFP