Singapore’s new National Stadium at SportsHub: 3 Reasons why it is worth a visit

Deciding whether to catch the next match at the new national stadium at Sportshub? My recommendation is a resounding yes. Here's why:

1. Memories

Kallang Stadium – This was the name more fondly called previously and brings back nostalgic memories for Singaporeans, especially the days when Fandi Ahmad and the Singapore Lions brought back the Malaysia cup. Soccer then held a special meaning and united all Singaporeans, and the new National Stadium plays a crucial role of carrying Singapore’s passion for the sport, and bringing the nation together.

Visit the new stadium, and take some time to reminisce the good old times.

2. New Look, Familiar Feel, Electric Atmosphere

The new stadium is by all angles, spectacular. It spans 88 acres and boasts a seating capacity of 55,000. The design of the stadium was state-of-the-art and it was somewhat air-conditioned. Yet on my most recent visit to watch the monumental match held at this new national stadium between Japan and Brazil, there were things that remained. Something familiar and close to the old stadium, was the atmosphere. And it was intense.

I think I was lucky – it was Singapore’s 2^nd star-studded match (previous one was Juventus vs Singapore) and naturally the crowd was hysterical after being deprived of such matches for a while (the whole demolition and construction took 4 years to complete). There were the natural cheerleaders leading the shouts “ We want, we want, Kaka, Kaka!”  There were the taiko drums and rhythmical clapping. And but of course, it was emotional to do the Kallang Wave again, though now as an adult.

Tickets for this match were sold out. I took the cheapest ticket at $40, and this was the level of distance I was away from the pitch:

Looks quite small from the photos, but it is still decent. Not the nearest, but it was near enough to make out the figure and features of the likes of Neymar and Kaka. Though I did not get to see Kagawa, I honestly thought $40 was a steal if I compare the exorbitant amount I will have to fork out for similar tickets in EPL.

I am not sure if the crowd will be as enthusiastic the next time you are there, but I am sure watching your stars live in close proximity will be reason enough for you to get your ticket.

3. Ease of accessibility and parking

The easiest way to get to Sportshub stadium is by train.

The presence of Stadium MRT is one stark differentiation from the past. This has made travelling so much easier. Take Exit A and you will be ushered to the stadium.

If you drive, you can buy pre-sold parking to be sure of your parking lot. Such parking costs $10.70 each and you will be ushered to designated carparks at the Sports Hub from Stadium Drive.

If $10.70 is a tad too expensive for you, I will suggest you park at Kallang Leisure park as there are ample parking space available. The traffic was manageable when I drove. Oh, remember to bring parking coupons.

The crowd control was great as well. Though there were hordes of people, it did not feel chaotic and the flow of traffic was orderly. People dispersed to the many shops and restaurants in the Kallang Wave mall, which definitely deserve another post to share its beauty. For a snapshot, this was the kind of scenery which the mall offered:

Some parts still need working

Of course, not all is rosy and one of my main grievances is that the pitch truly needs some work. A few of the players slipped sporadically during fast pace of play. Well, let’s give it some time for the grass to grow...

9/10 will catch the next Soccer match

Overall, if you are contemplating to watch the next soccer match at the new National Stadium, go for it. If not, drop by the Kallang Wave at the Sportshub and check out what is in store! 

Hope this was useful for you!

EUFASS