MYFA U-12 Team Makes International Debut at SingaCup 2026

An Exciting Adventure Begins

Fifteen talented boys from Tamil Nadu’s Karaikudi and Chennai embarked on an unforgettable journey to Singapore to participate in the SingaCup 2026. This international youth football tournament united teams from several Asian nations, providing a unique platform for the young athletes to test their skills against a variety of opponents.

For most of the players from the Murugappa Youth Football Academy (MYFA), this experience was monumental—it was their inaugural flight, their first passport, and, for many, the first time they had been away from their families. The adventure stretched far beyond the confines of the football pitch; it was a lesson in resilience and adaptation.

Challenges on the Field

Competing in an international tournament brought several challenges for the MYFA team. Their campaign kicked off against Fuerza FC from the Philippines at the Singapore Indian Association Stadium. The MYFA squad faced a tough opponent, ending in a 4-0 loss.

Besides the formidable competition, the boys had to acclimate to the playing conditions, which differed significantly from what they were accustomed to back home. The grass surface and quicker pace of the game served as formidable obstacles for the young players, used to more leisurely matches.

However, assistance came in the form of home-supporters who traveled to cheer them on. Nearly seventy members of the local Karaikudi community lent their support, showing up with refreshments and gear for the boys, creating a morale boost despite the tough match.

The pressure took its toll, particularly during their second match against Singapore’s Amalgamate Football Team, where one player received a red card after a collision. Amidst tears, his teammates comforted him, showcasing the bond they had developed. Playing with eight against nine, MYFA secured a late win with a penalty, ending the match at 1-0.

Learning from Defeat

The challenges continued with another match against TSS DarulEhsan from Malaysia. Rain made the turf slippery, complicating their efforts further, and MYFA lost 7-0. Yet, they proceeded to a qualifier against Indonesia’s Garuda Muda and demonstrated improvement, scoring early but ultimately falling just short, losing 3-2.

The experience illuminated the harsh realities of competitive sports. The boys learned that winning is essential but gaining resilience and camaraderie is equally important when facing adversity. These lessons were crucial as they navigated unfamiliar territory in the realm of football.

Exploration Beyond Football

After the tournament matches, the players had the chance to explore Singapore. Their adventures began with iconic sights such as the Merlion and Gardens by the Bay, leaving them in awe of the city’s impressive architecture and lush greenery. They learned quickly about Singapore’s strict rules, including fines for littering—a concept they appreciated.

Later, they met with Borussia Dortmund’s representatives, who discussed professional football and the importance of balancing sports with education. The boys were encouraged to practice regularly and were reminded that success in football must be accompanied by a solid foundation in academics.

Memories That Last

As the trip progressed, the boys embraced not only football but also playful moments at East Coast Park and even a visit to Universal Studios. Their time spent racing through amusement park rides highlighted the joy of discovering new cultures and friendships—local children, despite language barriers, played together in bliss.

By the time the team returned to Tamil Nadu, the focus had shifted from match results to the wealth of experiences acquired. They cherished memories of their first flight, their encounters at Borussia Dortmund’s office, and the warmth of community support.

Richard Divyanesan from the AMM Foundation expressed his ambition for the academy’s players, highlighting the importance of offering them opportunities that extend beyond the test of football, shaping their future in life and sport.

As Veeru Murugappan, head of sport at the AMM Foundation, emphasized, football is a gateway to instilling values such as teamwork, discipline, and commitment in every young player. The boys returned with much more than they came with—lessons that will resonate on and off the field.