SINGAPORE - "Oh Hougang United, we are the pride of the north-east" is a full blooded chant their supporters belt out during Singapore Premier League (SPL) matches, and they have more reason to cheer as they celebrate a return to the AFC Cup next year.

With 30 points from 17 games, Hougang are currently third behind Japanese defending champions Albirex Niigata (40 points from 17 games) and Lion City Sailors (35 points from 16 games), while Tampines Rovers are fourth (22 points from 16 games).