In search of belief, and a defensive midfielder Wounded Lions stare at early exit from World Cup qualifying campaign, after recent high of beating Malaysia

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SINGAPORE - From the high of vanquishing Malaysia and repeating a history-making run into the third round of the World Cup qualifiers, to an instant deflation and quick return to Earth after back-to-back defeats, it has been an emotionally draining couple of months for the Republic's Lions.

Dejected, disappointed, even angry they may be, but Radojko Avramovic's charges must face the harsh reality that their qualifying dream may be completely extinguished as early as next month, when they host to Jordan at the Jalan Besar Stadium.

Singapore fell 1-2 to China in Kunming last Friday, and lost 0-2 to Iraq here on Tuesday. Their next Group A fixture, at home against Jordan, is on Oct 11.

And belief is the single ingredient that the 61-year-old Avramovic insists can save their campaign after the emotional roller coaster.

"In a competition like this, each game is vital … but the Jordan game is a must-win now," Avramovic told Today.

"We need more belief in the team; the players must believe that they can win games. The best way is for them to play seriously for their clubs (in the S-League), to continue to play in good spirit so that when they come together again, they are ready for Jordan."

The Lions regroup on Oct 5, followed by a friendly against the Philippines two days later.

The broad smiles they wore in July have disappeared from the faces of the fickle football gods, who have turned their backs on the Lions.

From unavailable players to injuries and penalty claims that fell on deaf ears, the Lions have been luckless in recent times and Avramovic is keeping his fingers crossed that the tides turn, and his squad remain in the pink of health.

"They have shown that when they are healthy they can play well. I just hope that all 23 players we call up will be physically fit and injury-free. That's my main concern; everything else, we can deal with," said the Serb.

Mustafic Fahrudin is suspended for the Jordan fixture after picking up another yellow card against Iraq, while goalkeepers Izwan Mahbud (ankle) and Lionel Lewis (groin) are still nursing injuries, as is defender Safuwan Baharudin (foot).

While Avramovic is pleased with the likes of Safuwan and Izwan, who have matured over the last few games, he is concerned with the defensive capabilities of his team. A question mark still hangs over the availability of midfielder Hariss Harun, who recently started National Service.

"A winning team needs a good defence … and we must look to be more rational in defence because at this level it is hard to come back after you concede goals … so concentration is critical," said the Serb.

With Mustafic ruled out and the availability of Hariss and Safuwan still unknown, Avramovic is on the lookout for cover.

"I'm looking for someone in that defensive midfielder and stopper positions. There is some talent in the Courts Young Lions, and I will see if there are any better players out there," he said.

Lewis was reportedly considering retiring from the national team after Tuesday's fixture, but Avramovic is not too perturbed.

"Some things were said in the heat of the moment when emotions ran high, and I think Lionel will think differently after he sleeps on it," said Avramovic.

"In fact, all of us are frustrated because we have ended up with nothing after giving 100 per cent … The players must keep believing."