Tanjong Pagar vs Balestier Central Prediction: Can the home team pull a surprise stunt here?

On Sunday, Tanjong Pagar will kick off their Premier League campaign with a matchup against Balestier Central at the Jurong East Stadium. After a disappointing season, Hasrin Jailani's men will be keen to get off to a flying start when they face off against a more robust opponent. 

The Jaguars picked up twenty-one points from a possible seventy-two, ending in the bottom two of the SPL. Tanjong Pagar conceded sixty-two times while scoring thirty-nine times. Tanjong's major problem was their defence, as they conceded more than a goal over their last eleven games. Tanjong Pagar has strengthened their squad after a below-par season; unfortunately, we can see them challenge for the SPL title this season. 

The Tigers began their journey with a comeback stalemate against Geylang International on their ground. Thanks to Kodai Tanaka's brace after the break, which cancelled the visitors' early lead. The Tigers had a better season than the previous run in the SPL, wrapping up their campaign in fourth place. Balestier Central were the only side that didn’t draw a game in the league; they lost twelve and won twelve times. 

Balestier Central won just four in their previous home game in this competition, and we expect them to do better this time. They have made some significant signings and sold most of their key players. 

Over their previous twenty meetings, three games have ended in a draw, while Tanjong Pagar have won five and Balestier Central won twelve. Tanjong Pagar are far worse than their opponent, as they’ve managed just a win over their previous six matches in all competition. On the other hand, Balestier Central come into this game following their excellent second-half performance against Geylang International.

Tanjong Pagar have added some foreign players to their squad but we can hardly tell if they will quickly adapt to the new environment. However, the visitors have proven themselves in their opening game and we believe they’ll likely secure the maximum points here; bet on halftime over 1.5 goals for 1.66.

We expect the visitors to get all the points for 1.61.

Both teams might get a goal apiece before the break for 2.45.

Good luck!