Press Releases ● Jun 17, 2014
Football Welcomed Home At New National Stadium
SINGAPORE, 17 JUNE 2014: Past, present and future Lions gathered together earlier today for a training session at the National Stadium, part of the brand-new Singapore Sports Hub. It was the first footballing event to be held at the new National Stadium, and the first event of any kind to use its state-of-the-art Desso GrassMaster turf.
The players had a short kickabout on the pitch and familiarised themselves with the surroundings as the former national players shared their experiences with the younger players. The event capped by a symbolic handing over of the guard from the ex-internationals, represented by Razali Saad, to the younger generation, represented by Khairul Amri.
“The old National Stadium was where the legendary Kallang Roar was born. For almost 40 years it was the spiritual home of Singapore football, and it was with a heavy heart that we said goodbye to the Grand Old Lady in 2010,” said FAS President Mr Zainudin Nordin.
“It is a wonderful feeling to know that Singapore football will once again have a home that befits the huge following we enjoy here. It has been a long wait, but we are being rewarded for our patience with a truly world-class sporting arena,” Mr Zainudin added.
“It is very exciting to be here. Some of my best memories are of playing on the pitch at the old National Stadium, and I’m sure many more dreams will come true here at this new one,” said former national defender Lim Tong Hai.
“I cannot wait to play here for the first time. The fans have been great at Jalan Besar, but it will be another level completely with 55,000 cheering you on here,” agreed LionsXII midfielder Hafiz Abu Sujad.
The first football match to be played at the new National Stadium will be the friendly between the Singapore Selection and Juventus FC on Saturday 16 August 2014. Tickets can be purchased from Sports Hub Tix.
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