FC Internazionale Crowned Champion
The inaugural 2017 International Champions Cup Singapore has concluded after three high-scoring matches between top European football Clubs; Chelsea FC, FC Bayern and FC Internazionale.
Inter walked away champion of the inaugural tournament after a fierce battle this evening in front of 32,547 spectators at the Singapore National Stadium. Having won their first match against Bayern on Thursday, Inter needed a win to ensure the title was theirs. The first half saw a penalty by Inter’s Stevan Jovetic saved before he immediately converted the rebound. In the second half, Ivan Perisic scored a stunning goal on the counter-attack. An own goal from Geoffrey Kondogbia in the 74th minute brought the final score to 2-1.
The fixtures this week marked the first time top-flight European teams play each other in Singapore, and the public responded with great enthusiasm with over 104,407 spectators in attendance across all three matches. The first match of the tournament saw the English and German champions play out a 2-3 scoreline in front of 48,522 spectators, while the game between Bayern and Inter saw 23,338 spectators sing and cheer Inter to a 2-0 win over the Bundesliga champions.
“We have had fantastic football on the pitch with lots of goals and it has been really exciting for football fans. We are obviously delighted with the spectacular support we have received from the fans as well as the incredible atmosphere around the matches and the city,” said Mr. Patrick Murphy, President, Catalyst Media Group.
Said Ms Melissa Ow, Deputy Chief Executive, Singapore Tourism Board: "We are heartened that everyone involved in this year's ICC has had a memorable time here in Singapore. This is an encouraging start to our four-year commitment in bringing top-class football action to Southeast Asia and we look forward to building on this foundation to enhance the fan experience."
Mr. Murphy concluded “The tournament has exceeded our expectations in the first year. We are here for the next three years and we are looking forward to continuing to build the relationship with the football fans in Singapore and the region.”
The ICC is the world’s premier summer football tournament and brings the best in football to iconic venues across North America, Europe, Australia, China and now, Southeast Asia. Singapore is the third country to host the tournament in Asia-Pacific and will be the only country in Southeast Asia to host a leg of the prestigious annual tournament for the next four years (2017 – 2020).
