Shariff Abdul Samat (5 January 1984 – 11 February 2020) was a Singaporean professional footballer who played primarily as a centre-back. Active in Singapore's domestic professional leagues, he was part of the local football community through his on-field role and family connection to the sport. He died on 11 February 2020 at the age of 36 and is remembered by fans and teammates.

Career and role

Shariff spent his career in Singapore's professional club system, appearing for multiple teams in the country’s top domestic competitions. As a centre-back he occupied a central defensive position responsible for organizing the back line, contesting aerial duels and marking opposition attackers. The centre-back role typically demands positional awareness, tackling and leadership—qualities associated with players in that position.

Background and family

He was the son of Samad Allapitchay, a noted Singapore international footballer. That family connection placed Shariff within a lineage of Singaporean football and influenced his path into the sport. Like many second-generation players, he balanced respect for his father's legacy with efforts to build his own professional identity.

Legacy and significance

Although Shariff did not reach the same level of international fame as some senior national team members, he was a recognized figure in the domestic game. His career illustrates the many professional players who form the backbone of national leagues: providing competition, mentoring younger teammates and maintaining the sport’s presence at a community level. Following his death, local clubs and supporters noted his contributions to Singapore football.

Fast facts

  • Full name: Shariff Abdul Samat
  • Born: 5 January 1984
  • Died: 11 February 2020 (age 36)
  • Position: Centre-back
  • Family: Son of Singapore international Samad Allapitchay

For a concise reference, he is often described as a Singaporean professional footballer who competed within domestic leagues; further context on the structure of Singapore’s league system can be found via related resources here.