A young footballer’s promising career took a dark turn when Tanjong Pagar United decided to terminate Aniq Rizqin’s contract due to a violent incident involving an Albirex Niigata opponent after a Singapore Premier League Under-21 game. The shocking altercation, captured in videos circulating online, showed Aniq throwing a punch during post-match handshakes and sprinting to land a blow on the Albirex player.
In response, the police arrested a 19-year-old man, identified as Aniq, for public nuisance and voluntarily causing hurt. The gravity of the situation prompted Tanjong Pagar United to make a public statement on Instagram and Facebook, expressing regret and emphasizing their commitment to upholding sportsmanship and fair play.
Club’s Decision and Apology
After “careful consideration,” Tanjong Pagar United announced the termination of Aniq’s contract, highlighting their disapproval of violence and unsportsmanlike behavior both on and off the field. The club expressed remorse to their fans, supporters, and the broader football community for the unfortunate incident involving their U-21 player. By taking swift action, the club aimed to send a clear message about the values they stand for and the standards expected of their players.
In a show of accountability, Tanjong Pagar United also pledged to cooperate fully with the authorities and support Aniq through the police investigation process. They reached out to Albirex Niigata to offer assistance to the affected player, Kenji Austin Ho, who was hospitalized after sustaining a head injury. Albirex, in turn, assured the public of their commitment to Ho’s recovery and commended the dignified conduct of their team amidst the turmoil.
FA Investigation and Response
The Football Association of Singapore (FAS) was promptly notified of the incident and is set to investigate the matter further. Both clubs, Tanjong Pagar United and Albirex Niigata, have refrained from making additional comments as the FAS takes the lead in determining the appropriate course of action. As the football community grapples with the ramifications of this regrettable event, the focus remains on upholding the integrity of the sport and ensuring the well-being of all individuals involved.
In the aftermath of this incident, one thing is clear: the repercussions of a split-second decision can reverberate far beyond the confines of a football field. As fans and players alike reflect on the values of sportsmanship and respect, the hope is that lessons learned from this incident will pave the way for a more harmonious and respectful environment in the world of football. The journey towards healing and reconciliation is a collective effort that requires introspection, accountability, and a renewed commitment to upholding the spirit of fair play. Let this be a reminder that the beautiful game of football thrives not on aggression or violence, but on camaraderie, skill, and mutual respect.
