Sailors Want Final To Stay In Singapore

SPL leaders stress that Jalan Besar Stadium is approved by AFC, following rivals' objections

- Kimberly Kwek

The Lion City Sailors have called on the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) to keep the Asian Champions League Two (ACL2) final in Singapore, as discussions continue over the venue for the club's May 18 showdown against Sharjah FC.

This follows concerns raised by the Emirati club regarding the suitability of Jalan Besar Stadium, citing the venue's artificial turf and 6,000-seat capacity as key issues.

A statement issued by the Sailors on April 19 said: "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."

In accordance with competition regulations, the ACL2 final is contested by the top teams from the East and West regions, with the venue alternating yearly. For the 2024-25 edition, the host team will come from the East region.

A meeting between AFC officials and representatives from the Football Association of Singapore (FAS) to discuss the venue for the showpiece was held earlier this week.

While Jalan Besar remains a possible venue, Bishan Stadium, which can also hold approximately 6,000, is being seriously looked at as an alternative location due to its natural grass pitch.