Japan-born midfielder Kyoga Nakamura gains Singapore citizenship

SINGAPORE – The Lions have welcomed a timely addition to their squad ahead of the year-end Asean Football Federation (AFF) Championship, as BG Tampines Rovers’ Japan-born midfielder Kyoga Nakamura officially became a citizen of Singapore on Oct 25.

Shortly after taking his oath to become a Singaporean at the Immigration and Checkpoints Authority building in Kallang, he told The Straits Times: “I was very nervous before the pledge but after everything was over, I had all the memories in my head from the time I came to Singapore till now.

“I am very excited to finally be a Singaporean. I am so happy right now and I cannot wait to play for the Lions in official matches.”

His Lions debut is likely to come in November, when Singapore host Myanmar and Chinese Taipei in friendlies at the National Stadium.

Outlining his ambitions with the national team, he said: “I am still the same Kyoga. And I will give my all for Singapore and work hard for the country. The goal is to help Singapore to get better results and bring joy to the fans.”