Asian Football Confederation (AFC) has officially announced that the AFC Champions League Two 2024/25 Final between Lion City Sailors and Sharjah will now be held at Bishan Stadium on 18 May 2025, with kick-off scheduled for 8:00pm (SGT).
This change comes following a formal protest by Sharjah FC regarding the previously announced venue, Jalan Besar Stadium, which they deemed unsuitable due to its artificial turf and limited seating capacity. While Jalan Besar met all AFC standards and had successfully hosted all of the Sailors’ previous home matches in the tournament, the Emirati club submitted an official appeal requesting a venue that better reflects the stature of a continental final.
After reviewing the concerns and exploring alternative options, the AFC settled on Bishan Stadium — a natural grass venue that regularly hosts Lion City Sailors’ matches in the Singapore Premier League and is widely regarded as one of the country’s top football facilities.
The Singapore National Stadium, a more prominent option, was ruled out due to prior concert commitments, leaving Bishan as the most viable solution that balances both competitiveness and logistical feasibility.
The match will still be played on Singaporean soil, in accordance with the East-West hosting rotation system implemented by the AFC. This ensures the Lion City Sailors retain their home advantage, while also addressing Sharjah’s call for a more neutral and natural playing surface.
This decision sets the stage for a historic night at Bishan Stadium, with regional pride, continental glory, and club legacy all on the line. The final will mark a significant moment for Singapore football, as the Lion City Sailors aim to become the first Singaporean club to lift an AFC trophy.
The AFC Champions League Two, formerly known as the AFC Cup, is the second-tier continental competition in Asian club football. A win in this final not only brings prestige and silverware but could also be a gateway to greater opportunities in AFC’s revamped club competition hierarchy in the coming seasons.
Credit Photo : Deepanraj Ganesan
