Emirati side Sharjah FC’s protests over the artificial turf at Jalan Besar Stadium could unintentionally benefit Singaporean club Lion City Sailors FC as they prepare for the 2024/25 AFC Champions League Two final. The Sailors are set to host the prestigious match at their home ground, Bishan Stadium, on May 18th.
Since their inception as Home United in 1998, Lion City Sailors have primarily played their home matches at Bishan Stadium, with occasional fixtures at Jalan Besar Stadium and Our Tampines Hub during renovation periods.
However, Bishan Stadium’s limited capacity and narrow pitch initially fell short of meeting the AFC’s requirements for continental competitions, forcing the Sailors to relocate to Jalan Besar for their AFC fixtures. With the final now set to take place at Bishan, the team’s deep familiarity with the venue could provide them with a significant advantage in the title decider.
The decision to use Bishan Stadium was made after the 55,000-seater National Stadium in Kallang, the traditional home of the Singapore national team, was booked for a Lady Gaga concert on the day of the final.
Lion City Sailors announced on their social media that they are working closely with Sport Singapore, the Football Association of Singapore (FAS), and local experts to ensure Bishan Stadium meets AFC standards before the final.
According to the Sailors, upgrades are necessary to meet the required TV broadcast standards, including improvements to the floodlights, enhancements to the natural grass pitch, and a significant increase in seating capacity. Temporary stands will be added to increase the stadium’s 2,800-seat capacity, similar to the adjustments made during the 2015 SEA Games when Bishan accommodated 6,000 spectators.
Sharjah had initially objected to the use of Jalan Besar Stadium for this season’s ACL2 final, citing its artificial turf and 6,000 capacity. Lion City Sailors had used Jalan Besar six times during their ACL2 campaign, achieving four wins, one draw, and one defeat.
The Sailors’ record at Bishan Stadium has been even more impressive, with 14 wins from 17 domestic games in the Singapore Premier League and Singapore Cup, drawing twice and losing just once.
With the final now just days away, the Sailors will look to capitalize on their home advantage and hope that the stadium upgrades will allow them to put on a memorable show for their fans. As they aim for glory in front of a packed Bishan crowd, the team’s familiarity with the venue could prove pivotal in their pursuit of continental success.