The Asian Football Confederation should keep the Asian Champions League 2 (ACL2) final in Singapore and not cave in to the protests by United Arab Emirates side Sharjah FC.
The Emirati side has raised concerns over the suitability of Jalan Besar Stadium, citing the stadium’s artificial turf and the 6,000 seat capacity for the 18 May final.
The Jalan Besar Stadium was an approved venue for all of the Sailors’ ACL2 matches, and they came away with a 2-0 victory against Sydney FC at the venue to force their way into the final.
A statement issued by the Sailors on April 19 said that “we want to state our position clearly: 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.”
Pointing to Jalan Besar Stadium, the Sailors said that the stadium “has a proud history of staging major football matches and has more than proven itself as a capable and reliable venue.”
The final of ACL2 is contested by the top teams from the East and West regions, and with the venue to alternate annually.
For the 2024-25 edition, the host team for the final will be from the East region.
Bishan Stadium is also an alternative, given that the National Stadium will host the first of four Lady Gaga concerts in May.
The Sailors added that it was “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.”
“Together, we have a shared ambition to showcase our nation’s ability to stage world-class football events.
“We are excited about the significance of this final – not just for our club, but for Singapore football.”
PHOTO: LION CITY SAILORS