SINGAPORE — Baihakki Khaizan believes criticism of Singapore coach Aide Iskandar over the Republic’s form at the South-east Asian (SEA) Games men’s under-23 football competition is unfair.

Although they lead Group A, Singapore laboured to a 1-1 draw against Laos on Sunday and a 1-0 win over Vietnam on Tuesday. But victory over Brunei tonight at Naypyidaw’s Zeyar Thiri Stadium tonight would edge them closer to a semi-final berth.

Speaking at the unveiling of his role as ambassador of the Chelsea FC Soccer School Singapore (CFCSSSG), Singapore national defender Baihakki backed Aide to lead Singapore into the SEA Games final on Dec 21.

“I’ve watched their first two games, and I cannot blame or fault their performance at all,” said Baihakki, who recently left Malaysian Super League (MSL) champions LionsXII for MSL rivals Johor Darul Takzim.

Baihakki stressed the Aide, who succeeded V Sundramoorthy as national under-23 side two months ago, is under a lot of pressure to deliver.

“I do not think it is fair for him to swallow all that criticism...I know Aide personally and he takes criticism well and converts them into something positive,” he said. “The next two games will be crucial for them, and I think they can make the final.”

As ambassador of CFCSSSG’s community programme, Baihakki, 29, will use football to engage under-privileged children. The CFCSSSG will work with local schools to provide tutoring and football coaching sessions. The initiative starts next month at Bedok South Secondary School. ADELENE WONG