Fandi Ahmad is a name that resonates with most Singaporeans. From his humble beginnings as a kampong boy with big dreams to becoming one of the nation’s most celebrated football legends, Fandi’s journey has been a source of pride for Singapore, bringing the nation together through his remarkable achievements.
Throughout his career, Fandi achieved several defining moments that left a lasting impact on Singaporean football. His iconic goals for Singapore during the Southeast Asian Games in the 1980s played a key role in securing three silver medals for the nation.
Additionally, Fandi served as captain of the Singapore Lions from 1993 to 1997, leading the team through numerous milestones.
Vintage Radio catches up with Fandi as he reflects on his career. Tune in to this digital streaming station, available online or through its mobile app for exclusive interviews and nostalgic hits.
Fandi Ahmad: A love for football since childhood
Advertisement
Fandi grew up as the middle child in a family of three, with an older sister and a younger brother. His father, a national goalkeeper, clearly passed down his love for sports — Fandi’s sister was a champion sprinter in school, and he found his passion for football early on.
Inspired by his father, Fandi’s dream was to become a national footballer.
Taking those words to heart, nine-year-old Fandi joined the boys in his kampong for training sessions led by his father every weekend.
Their session began with team jogs followed by football practice.
In his kampong, a large gathering of 40 boys would play together, some of whom were Fandi’s cousins staying together with him and his grandmother. Fandi gradually recognised this training as an integral part of his football journey.
Fandi started playing for his school team in Yio Chu Kang Primary School, from primary four to six, where they consistently win championship titles. Starting out as a goalkeeper, he subsequently made the switch to an attacking midfield position after his teacher suggested it.
Fandi Ahmad: Rise to fame
Credit: Instagram/fandiahmadofficial @fandiahmadofficial
By the time Fandi was 15, he had already become a regular for the Singapore team, earning the title of “schoolboy soccer sensation” from the press. He subsequently became the vice-captain for the Singapore Under-16 national team.
Two years later, Fandi made his Malaysia Cup debut at the National Stadium against Malacca, becoming one of the youngest players to represent Singapore on a national level. He scored the winning goal in a two-one victory over Selangor before enlisting for National Service in September 1980.
After he finished serving the army, Fandi was invited to Amsterdam for a trial with Dutch club Ajax Amsterdam. Impressed by his performance, they offered him a three-year contract.
Around the same time, Indonesian club Niac Mitra also expressed interest in signing him and countered with a higher offer. Although Fandi initially leaned towards joining Ajax, he ultimately decided to sign with Niac Mitra after a discussion with his family.
Fandi moved to Surabaya, Indonesia, where he enjoyed a successful first season, scoring 13 goals and helping Niac Mitra win the Galatama League title.
Fandi Ahmad: A most memorable match
Credit: Facebook/The Long and Winding Road @thelongnwindingroad
After his contract with Niac Mitra ended, Fandi received an offer from Dutch First Division team FC Groningen in July 1983. He signed a one-year contract with the club, which marked a turning point in his career.
On October 19, 1983, FC Groningen faced Inter-Milan in the second round of the Union European Football Association (UEFA) Cup. It was the Dutch team’s first time qualifying for the tournament, and with Inter-Milan being the clear favourite, the odds were stacked against them.
At 1-0, Groningen was leading, but they needed another goal to secure a win. In the last minute of the match, Groningen defender Adri Van Tiggelen sent a lob into the penalty box. The ball deflected off Fulvio Collovati’s head, the defender for Inter Milan – and bounced to the side. Fandi, quick on his feet, seized the opportunity and fired with his left foot, scoring a memorable goal that clinched the victory.
That unforgettable moment marked the beginning of a new chapter for Fandi, both personally and professionally. His skill on the field would soon put Singapore on the international football map.
Fandi continued his journey by scoring several key goals for Singapore in the Southeast Asian Games, helping the team secure three silver medals in 1983, 1985, and 1989.
After several stints with Greek Division One champion OFI Crete and Malaysian football group Sri Pahang, Fandi finally returned to Singapore in 1993, signing a two-year contract with the Football Association of Singapore, leading as captain of the national Lions team for four years till 1997.
He decided to retire from the Singapore national team after his captain stint. Two years later, Fandi took on the role of coach at Singapore Armed Forces Football Club (SAFFC). Under his leadership, SAFFC clinched S. League (precursor to Singapore Premier League) titles in 2000 and 2002.
Fandi continued to contribute to Singapore as the Singapore Lions assistant coach in 2003. Two years later, he became the head coach of the Singapore Lions and continued on and off till 2019.
He is currently the head coach of Sri Pahang FC, a Malaysian football club.
Fandi Ahmad: Family and legacy
Credit: Facebook/Fandi Ahmad Official @fandiahmadofficial
At a friend’s wedding, Fandi crossed paths with Wendy Jacobs, a South African model. They started dating and eventually got married in 1996. Together, they have five children, four boys and one girl. Like their parents, their children have shown remarkable talent.
Three of Fandi’s sons — Irfan, Ikhsan, and Ilhan — play for the national football team, while his daughter Iman has pursued a career as a singer and model. Irfan and Ikhsan are currently with top-tier Thai side BG Pathum United, while their youngest brother, Ilhan, is a rising star in the Singapore Premier League.
This content was originally aired on Vintage Radio. To listen to the complete podcast, click here.
