The Lion City Sailors have taken a strong stance in favor of hosting the AFC Champions League Two final in Singapore. Scheduled for May 18, the final will mark a historic moment as the Sailors become the first Singaporean football team to reach the final of a continental competition. For the first time in its 145 year history, Singapore will host the acclaimed match. The specific venue has not been publicly confirmed so far.
The Sailors have developed an incredibly creative and exciting proposal! This stadium has 6,000 seats and an artificial pitch. They wish for Jalan Besar to host the final. They think this would be a great place to hold such a big event, especially with their home field advantage. Nonetheless, these are sentiments that have been countered by Sharjah FC, who have questioned whether Jalan Besar Stadium would be fit to host a final.
Call for Local Support
Singapore’s Lion City Sailors emphasized the historic nature of hosting the final in Singapore. As advocates, they want the match on their home ground because they know it’s right and just.
“This final must be played in Singapore. This is our home, and as the club that has earned the right to host the final, we believe it is only fair and proper that it takes place on Singaporean soil.” – Lion City Sailors
The club echoed the sentiment of wanting to continue putting Singapore on the map as a world-class football event host. She shared her thanks for the support received from Sport Singapore and the Football Association of Singapore (FAS). Together, they hope to raise Singapore’s standing in world football.
“We are grateful for the strong backing of Sport Singapore and FAS, who have shown clear intent and commitment to bringing this final to life here in Singapore,” – Lion City Sailors
As host cities, they shared their thoughts on the significance of bringing this match to their hometown. Not only will it conclude their Champions League Two campaign in style, it will produce a historic moment of pride for Singaporean football on a continental stage.
Concerns from Sharjah FC
Despite the just about confined help from the Sailors and local government, Sharjah FC has expressed reservations concerning Jalan Besar Stadium. With this in mind, the club’s representatives have continually made the case that the stadium is unfit for the ambitions of the fans and club stakeholders. Their concerns noted that its small capacity and lack of facilities make it inadequate for an event so large.
“This stadium does not meet the aspirations of the fans and stakeholders,” – Sharjah FC
The concerns were echoed in a further statement that described the venue as “not suitable in terms of capacity and facilities.” These reservations, while valid, showcase the delicate spider silk tightrope deploying organizers have to walk. They need to be sure to align everyone’s expectations for this expensive and high-stakes affair.
Historical Significance
The AFC Champions League Two, known as the AFC Cup, is the second-tier Asian club football tournament. Regardless of how the final turns out, this has been an incredible run for the Sailors. They even defeated heavyweights such as Sanfrecce Hiroshima and Sydney FC along the way! Their historic achievement has already sparked interest from fans and stakeholders, further heightening excitement for the upcoming match.
The FAS has expressed its determination to stand behind the Sailors as they wave Singapore’s flag on this renowned stage. In response, a spokesperson reiterated their commitment to making sure that the team is able to keep this success going on the Asian stage.
“We are firm in our commitment to support the Sailors who continue to represent the country proudly on the Asian stage in this tournament,” – FAS spokesperson
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