It seems like it's been in construction forever, but Tottenham Hotspur's new stadium looks finally set to open. The club were hoping to begin the 2018/19 campaign in their new home but a series of delays led to the official opening being pushed back a number of times, resulting in their stay at Wembley Stadium being extended. It's a move that's bound to be a popular one with the fans after being frustrated by the lack of progress with it.
There's two test events coming up in March before the new stadiums first official match. First up on 24th March an under 18s fixture against Southampton with a reduced capacity of 30k, before a legends match on 30th March which will see an increased allowance of 45k fans. It's been a frustrating wait for Spurs fans to enter their new home so Daniel Levy has responded by making both of these events free to members of the local community - obtainable via a successful application in a ballot.
The smooth running and success of these two test events are pivotal to Spurs hosting first team competitive fixtures in the near future. Should these go to plan then they will be awarded with a safety certificate which means that they can open for business.
The identity of the first opponent is yet to be confirmed with Brightons FA Cup clash with Millwall on 17th playing a part in it. If the Seagulls win then Spurs' first match at their new home will be against Palace on Wednesday 3rd April. However, should they go down to a defeat then they will indeed be the first visitors on the weekend of the 6th/7th of April.
Alongside the Premier League, the new stadium has also been cleared by UEFA which means their upcoming Champions League quarter-final will be hosted there. Their opponent is yet to be confirmed, with the draw taking place in Nyon on Friday afternoon. Meaning that Tottenham could potentially book their spot in their first ever CL semi-final under the lights of their new home - a mouth watering prospect for their supporters.
It's an exciting new era set to begin for the club and Levy shares that view "We are delighted that we shall be able to welcome our supporters to the stadium and our players of the past and the future to take to the pitch on what will be momentous occasions for our club."
"Please do come and see your new stadium and share these moments. Thank you all once again. Your support has been much appreciated during a challenging but exciting time."
