De Jong lifts Global to S’pore Cup last 8

UFL champion Global FC pulled off a stunning 2-1 extra-time victory over S-League side Hougang United Wednesday night to reach the quarterfinals of the Singapore Cup at Hougang Stadium in the Lion City.

Jason de Jong made a remarkable return after a six-month hiatus, firing home the winning goal in the 103rd minute as Global produced a scintillating comeback to earn a date with another S-League side, Geylang United.

Global returns to Singapore for the quarterfinals in August.

“It was a tight game and I’m happy the players responded to the challenge in extra time,” said Global owner Dan Palami.

“I’m proud of the players and I think its a fair result considering the way we played and the chances we created,” said Global coach Leigh Manson.

Francisco Chupe put Hougang ahead with a well-taken free kick in the 39th minute.

But Global pulled level six minutes after the break through Japanese Norio Suzuki, who headed home from close range after the initial effort from substitute Amani Aguinaldo caused havoc inside the box.

Hougang’s inability to defend another corner kick haunted the hosts as De Jong, the former Azkal who left Global last year to explore career options in Europe before coming back this month, struck the winner from 10 yards following Mark Hartmann’s delivery.

Global also needed a sterling performance from Ivorian goalkeeper Roland Sadia who denied Hougang a string of chances late in the second half.