The Saviour

When the fate of a whole country is on your shoulders.

- Jackie Teo

Izwan Mahbud might not be a familiar name, but his heroics for Singapore is surely to ring bells. Together with the LionsXII, Izwan won the 2013 Malaysian Super League and the 2015 Malaysian FA Cup. It is

however, his tremendous contribution for the country against Asian giants Japan during the World Cup qualifiers, where he clocked 18 saves, including several clutch blocks and parries which made him famous. Former AC Milan winger Keisuke Honda had the camera panned to him several times, looking in disbelief as Izwan denied all attempts on goal.

His performance against Japan propelled his value, and received a trial at Japan League 2 side Matsumoto Yamaga, which unfortunately failed to materialise.

“I’m very thankful for the opportunity given by them for the trial. But personally, I felt that seven days was not enough to impress the scouts, maybe two to three weeks I could better showcase my talent and adapt to the team.” said the 27-year-old.