Two teams, two countries, one shared dream. 

The Lion City Sailors’ U13 and U17 boys recently embarked on a two-week European training camp - the U13s in Villarreal, Spain, and the U17s in Porto, Portugal - all in pursuit of becoming better footballers. 


For U13 Head Coach Bruno Jeremias, the experience was nothing short of ‘enriching’. 

“It was a new experience for the athletes, which helps everyone's evolution. They experienced a different culture, were far from their family and their usual customs,” he explained. 

“On the pitch, there were tough times as we faced opponents who approach the game differently from the Singaporean reality. It was both challenging and stimulating, but we kept our heads up and were as competitive as possible.”

Bruno’s initial concerns about the players struggling to adapt were quickly put to rest.

“I was afraid it would be difficult to manage that part, but honestly, it was the easiest,” the Portuguese shared. “They adapted very well and there were no problems at all.” 

Arguably the standout performer for the U13 team, midfielder Bryceton Pang believes the training camp has been hugely beneficial for his development. 

“I had heard great things about the camp and was looking forward to playing against talented players from different countries. I was thinking about how this camp would develop me as a player,” he shared.

“This one was way more intense and competitive than the other training camps I’ve been to before. The training sessions were tougher and the opponents we played were also so much stronger.” 

Up against players who were often ‘one head taller’, Bryceton knew he had to adapt quickly.

“I think one of the biggest challenges was adjusting to the intensity of the game and the physicality,” he added. 

“I would still try my very best during matches despite the circumstances. In turn, it pushed me out of my comfort zone and I ended up learning so much more than I expected - from teamwork and discipline to adaptability. I became more confident during games and I think our team’s chemistry has improved as a result.” 

Meanwhile, U13 forward Tan Zheng Rui admitted he felt a mix of excitement and nerves prior to the trip.

“Being away from my family for two weeks wasn’t easy, but I got used to the environment over time,” he shared. “It was also a good chance for me to become more independent and responsible.”

Zheng Rui also highlighted how playing against Spanish teams helped sharpen his awareness and decision-making on the pitch.

“The games were more intense, the level of competition was higher, and every session pushed me to stay sharp,” he said.

“Their technical ability and quick thinking really stood out. I learned how important it is to move off the ball, communicate more and always stay alert.”

Off the pitch, Zheng Rui and his teammates had the chance to catch a LaLiga clash between Villarreal and Sevilla live at the Estadio de la Cerámica.

“One of the coolest things we did in Spain was visiting a professional stadium and watching a live match,” he shared.

“The atmosphere was amazing - so loud and full of energy. It made me dream even more about playing at that level one day.”

Led by Head Coach Ashraf Ariffin, the U17s had a similarly intense and transformative experience over in Portugal.

Ashraf described the camp as competitive and was encouraged by how the players embraced the challenge and pushed beyond their comfort zones.

“All the games were definitely above the level that we play in Singapore, but we competed well and put in some good showings against strong academies. Playing six games in 12 days was a challenge, but the boys rose to the occasion,” he said.

“Defensively, they executed what we trained for - staying compact, resilient, and hard to beat. Offensively, there’s still room to grow and while there’s still a gap between us and top European academies, it is nice to see that we are closing it year by year.”

Motivating the players was never an issue, Ashraf added.

“This is something we work towards every season,” he said.

“They look forward to it and knew they had six games to show their best. They were very motivated to perform and compete for places.”

U17 player Ayden Haziq relished the challenge, having been handed the captain’s armband during one of the matches.

“The game against Vitória really stood out. We worked hard and performed well together as a team. It was also my first time being captain, which was a proud moment for me,” said the centre-back.

Though familiar with overseas trips, Ayden found the Portuguese climate tough to adjust to at first but was able to get through it eventually.

“My coaches really helped by pushing me and helping me overcome the challenges I faced,” he said. 

“I also learned how not to give up easily and persevere, no matter the challenge. I believe that mindset will benefit me in future matches.”

Teammate Muhd Darwisy was also grateful for the opportunity, calling the camp an eye-opener.

“Having to play so many matches in two weeks really pushed me beyond my limits. I learned how to calm down and manage my frustration - something that helped me in the game against FC Vizela, where I won a penalty and scored after a tough first half,” he recalled.

One aspect that stuck with Darwisy was the work ethic of the European players.

“They never walked and are always running, sprinting, pressing,” he said. 

“I really admire that and hope to bring that same level of energy to every training and match that I’ll be participating in.”

With the training camp now behind them, Ashraf already has his sights set on the next phase for his players.

“Some of these boys will be aiming for the national team, while others must continue stepping up in their development. The structures are in place at the Academy and this camp was an important stepping stone for them,” he concluded. 

From Villarreal to Porto, the young Sailors’ time in Europe was defined by learning, bonding and stepping up to new challenges.