Latest news with #NationalStadium
The Star
2 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Stylish new midtown stay in KL
A STRIKING new landmark is about to make its mark on the Kuala Lumpur skyline; and it's not just another luxury hotel. Set to open its doors on Aug 26, Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur at KL Midtown brings with it a renewed sense of purpose and design. More than just a return of the Hyatt Regency brand to the capital, this property offers a modern take on what city hospitality can look and feel like. It will be one that blends global polish with local warmth. Located across from Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre, the hotel is positioned in the heart of KL Midtown, a fast-rising district poised to become the city's new hub for conventions, commerce and culture. Beyond the address, it is the design that is turning heads. At the helm of the hotel's architecture is Kengo Kuma, the renowned Japanese architect behind Tokyo's National Stadium. China House to offer bold Chinese flavours. Known for his devotion to natural materials and harmony with the environment, Kuma brings his signature style to the property – think wood, stone and paper textures, softened light, and a sense of openness that subtly transports guests away from the urban rush. Inside, it houses 410 rooms, including 306 hotel rooms and suites and 104 fully serviced residences, a dual offering that caters to both short-stay business travellers and families looking for longer-term city living. It is this balance that defines the hotel's character, general manager Till Martin said in an interview with StarMetro. 'Hyatt Regency Kuala Lumpur at KL Midtown sets itself apart from other five-star hotels in the city; we don't want to end up in the sea of sameness. 'I have only been in Kuala Lumpur for a year, but it has interesting because I've never been to a country or city where 95% of all five-star hotels are in the same area,' said Martin, whose 29-year journey with Hyatt included various locations such as Germany, the United States, United Arab Emirates, South Korea and China. He emphasised the hotel's unique location, offering easy access and connectivity. You will get a sense of zen as you step into the premises, said Martin, 'thanks to Kuma's unique touch in turning it into an urban oasis'. With 16 function spaces and a pillarless ballroom, the hotel is geared to support the city's growing appetite for events. After hours, the hotel transforms into a sanctuary. Guests can unwind by the fifth floor infinity pool, encircled by tropical greenery, or visit the Core Fitness Centre outfitted with top-tier equipment and personal trainers on request. Those staying in the serviced residences can take it a notch higher with exclusive access to a private 32nd floor pool. Martin emphasised the hotel's commitment to sustainability, including plastic-free initiatives, utilisation of natural products and solar panels, and a focus on food waste management. The hotel will be home to a diverse line-up of venues including Midtown Brasseries serving all-day fare and a curated Asian buffet, Midtown Lounge for a spot of coffee or casual meetings, Enso Izakaya & Bar featuring authentic yakitori and a deep sake library. There's also China House serving bold northern Chinese flavours anchored by its wood-fired Peking Duck, and Breeze Poolside Bar for light bites and sunset drinks.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Sport
- Yahoo
Arsenal stars sign autographs for fans in Singapore after open training
Go behind the scenes as Arsenal players meet fans in Singapore after an open training session at the National Stadium.
New York Times
2 days ago
- Sport
- New York Times
Arsenal 3 Newcastle 2: Elanga impresses, Osula stands in for Isak (again), Botman concern
Newcastle United's winless start to pre-season continued with a defeat against Arsenal at the Singapore National Stadium. However, Eddie Howe's side delivered a far more encouraging display than during last weekend's 4-0 loss at Celtic, even though Alexander Isak remains absent. In East Asia, Anthony Elanga made the perfect start to his full debut, rounding off an excellent Newcastle move. The winger's finish was a bit of a mishit, but he still directed Sandro Tonali's low cross onto the right-hand post and in. Advertisement Newcastle were then punished by two Arsenal goals in quick succession from the 33rd minute, with former Newcastle midfielder Mikel Merino equalising with a well-placed shot, before Alex Murphy inadvertently lashed a dangerous cross into his own net. Howe made nine half-time changes, with only Will Osula and Nick Pope continuing, and in the 58th minute, Jacob Murphy equalised with a left-footed shot from 25 yards. Mikel Arteta's second-half substitutions improved Arsenal and 15-year-old Max Dowman, who caused immeasurable problems down Newcastle's left, was pushed in the box by Joelinton in the 83rd minute. Martin Odegaard dispatched the penalty to secure victory. Chris Waugh, who is in Singapore, and George Caulkin analyse the key talking points. On July 11, the third-most expensive signing in Newcastle's history was explaining his decision to move to Tyneside. 'The club won a trophy and are building something unique, something special that I really want to be part of,' Elanga said, fresh from his £52million ($69.9m) transfer from Nottingham Forest. Those words almost feel as if they belong to a different era. In a difficult summer, the past fortnight has been particularly brutal, but the winger's first start did at least provide a reminder of a contextual sort. Newcastle have suffered some high-profile rejections; they might be reeling from the Isak situation, but not everybody wants out and Howe has some good players at his disposal. They are cup-winners with the Champions League to look forward to. Perhaps it is a case of one step forward and another couple back, but bringing in a right-sided reinforcement has been a priority for Howe since he joined. Elanga scored six minutes into his full debut, putting the finishing touches to a lovely sweeping move which showcased some Newcastle quality. Kieran Trippier spotted Tonali's run, the Italian's cross was like a laser beam, and although Elanga's shot was miscued, he was stretching backwards after ghosting into space. It was promising. Anthony Elanga. :zap:️ — Newcastle United (@NUFC) July 27, 2025 The Sweden international lasted 45 minutes before being replaced by Murphy, one of last season's great success stories. Murphy also scored, curling in a shot from long range. Suddenly, Howe has some options — in this position, anyway. George Caulkin Isak is not here — and, as far as Howe (and the club's board) is concerned, he is still not for sale, either. The Sweden striker's non-appearance on the pre-season tour — due to injury according to the club, but The Athletic has reported his preference not to travel — has and will continue to dominate the news cycle. As if to rub it in that Newcastle have yet to bring in a striker and their star players is not even in East Asia (and will not be joining them in South Korea, Howe confirmed), Arsenal paraded their new £55m centre-forward signing, Viktor Gyokeres, before kick-off in Singapore. But an absence presents an opportunity. Osula has played the most minutes of any Newcastle player in pre-season — and by some distance. The 21-year-old started at Celtic and lasted 76 minutes, while he played for the opening 73 against Arsenal. Largely, that is out of necessity. Aside from Sean Neave, the 18-year-old academy graduate, Howe does not have another out-and-out striker on tour. As things stand, Newcastle are heading into the campaign with a striker who has a solitary Premier League goal to his name as their first-choice centre-forward. Advertisement Osula has just about all of the attributes to become a top-level striker — he is tall, quick and has two good feet — but is still learning his craft. A willing runner, in and out of possession, he does stretch opposition defences with his constant desire to try and get in behind. The Dane was unfortunate not to score during the second half when Murphy whipped in a delicious cross and Osula, who had timed his run well, powered a header beyond the far post. Howe described Osula's performance as 'much better' than against Celtic, before claiming that the striker 'had to be ready' in case he was required to start the opening league game against Aston Villa on August 16. Even before the Isak situation unfolded, Newcastle's need for another striker was acute (following Callum Wilson's exit). Now that requirement borders upon the desperate. As Howe conceded, 'We're not deluded.' Yoane Wissa would be a good addition from Brentford, given his pedigree and versatility, but that is proving to be yet another frustratingly complicated (and potentially expensive) deal. RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko is a dream target, but that would be an even trickier (and more costly) transfer to pull off. Howe wants Newcastle to end this window stronger than they start it, but they are looking worryingly weak up top (not to mention the other areas which have yet to be augmented). Chris Waugh Botman had only been introduced at the break, coming on as a left-sided centre-back after Howe tweaked his system, with Newcastle switching to a three-man defence. But he then went off in the 70th minute, gesturing towards his groin. Howe was typically vague in his assessment of the injury, although his answer was hardly encouraging. 'He came off and said his groin was a bit tight,' Howe said. 'So fingers crossed he's OK.' For a player who has managed only 21 Premier League starts across the past two seasons, the sight of Botman being withdrawn was concerning. Mercifully, at least it is not another knee injury. But with a centre-back yet to be signed (alongside a goalkeeper, striker or midfielder), Newcastle cannot afford for Botman to be sidelined. The immediate soundings from those close to Botman — speaking anonymously to protect relationships — was that it was precautionary and nothing serious. Only time will tell for certain. Chris Waugh
New York Times
2 days ago
- Sport
- New York Times
Arsenal 3 Newcastle United 2: Havertz impresses, Gyokeres unveiled, and an exciting Dowman cameo
The 39,000 fans who attended Arsenal's 3-2 win over Newcastle at the Singapore National Stadium were treated to five goals, a glimpse of a brand new summer signing, as well as an eye-catching cameo from a potential star of the future. Newcastle took the lead with a goal from new recruit Anthony Elanga, before Arsenal scored two in quick succession — the first a neat finish from Mikel Merino, the second an own goal from Alex Murphy. Advertisement His namesake, Jacob Murphy, equalised to make it 2-2, before a brilliant run from substitute Max Dowman ended in Joelinton conceding a penalty, which Martin Odegaard converted for the winning goal. Arsenal fly to Hong Kong on Tuesday before facing north London neighbours Tottenham in the final match of their tour on July 31. James McNicholas breaks down the main talking points from Arsenal's second victory of pre-season. Arsenal fans attending this pre-season friendly got a special pre-game treat. Shortly before kick-off, Arsenal's new signing, Swedish international striker Viktor Gyokeres, was paraded on the pitch. Gyokeres completed his move to Arsenal on Saturday night — although when the deal was actually announced, it was 2am local time on Sunday in Singapore. Gyokeres, accompanied by Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta, touched down at Changi Airport late on Sunday afternoon. Within a few hours, the striker was out on the field to meet the adoring local fans. Despite the 13-hour flight, Gyokeres looked surprisingly fresh. The question now is how quickly Mikel Arteta intends to integrate him into the squad. Arsenal have the final friendly of their tour against Tottenham in Hong Kong on Thursday, July 31 — will Gyokeres be ready to have some involvement? Arsenal have signed Gyokeres for an initial £55million, but they have another centre-forward who cost £65m when he joined from Chelsea in 2023: Kai Havertz. The German international started this friendly in the No 9 position and impressed with two good assists (Havertz's driven cross was turned into his own net by Newcastle's Alex Murphy). Gyokeres' arrival increases the competition for places, but it's difficult to imagine anyone simply brushing Havertz aside: when the former Chelsea forward is fit, he tends to play. Advertisement Perhaps Arteta will embrace more rotation next season. Havertz is coming back from a hamstring injury he suffered in February — one that might have been avoided if he'd been afforded more rest. A bulked-up Havertz took a buffeting in this game before being withdrawn on the hour mark. The centre-forward role is physically demanding and there are certainly enough fixtures to be shared around. Havertz's versatility also means he could potentially play certain games alongside Gyokeres. In this friendly, Merino ostensibly played the left No 8 position, but was often operating in advanced areas close to Havertz. This was most evident on Arsenal's first goal, when Havertz flicked the ball into Merino's path for a first-time finish. In that instance, Havertz and Merino almost looked like a front two. Could we see Havertz and Gyokeres combining in a similar fashion this season? While naturally keeping his cards close to his chest, Arteta didn't rule that out. 'Yeah, we do have plans,' he said. 'We do have a lot of options and we are increasing the quality of the squad and the depth of the squad with all the signings that we've done. 'We are super happy to have Viktor with us. It's been a long journey to get him over here. He's been incredible. He was very clear from the beginning where he wanted to play and how passionate I felt from him from day one when we first spoke. You can see the boys — you can see the environment as well — (are) very excited with his arrival.' Recent fixtures between Arsenal and Newcastle have had plenty of needle and this was no exception. One of the considerations when playing pre-season games against Premier League teams is that they're not always entirely 'friendly'. Add in that antipathy between these two teams and this game was always going to have a more competitive edge. This supposed exhibition actually saw two yellow cards issued in the first 45 minutes, amid a succession of meaty challenges. Advertisement Arsenal did not emerge unscathed — Riccard Calafiori departed straight down the tunnel clutching his thigh. On the touchline, at one stage in the second half, when Arsenal were denied a free kick in their defensive third, Arteta just stared at the fourth official in disbelief. After impressing in a cameo against Milan on Sunday, 15-year-old Dowman was brought on with half an hour remaining in the game. He received an unceremonious welcome — having beaten Joelinton in midfield, he was immediately scythed down by the Brazilian. It didn't seem to faze Dowman at all, though. The teenager was twice denied after dangerous attempts at goal. Dowman then created the winner, driving into the penalty area with a determined run. Once again, it was Joelinton chasing him. This time, the foul resulted in a penalty kick, converted by Odegaard. These are just friendly games, but they're against a good quality of opposition. Dowman not only hasn't looked out of place, he's been one of the most threatening players on the pitch. At such a young age, it's quite remarkable and his manager agrees. 'Yeah, it is special,' said Arteta. 'Obviously, what he's done today against this team in the time that he had on the pitch is something certainly not common to witness for a 15-year-old. 'We are extremely happy to have him. I think, again, the environment that he's around in — his family, the people at the club and around the academy as well — (is) super helpful because they put him into this position so early in his journey, having a real chance and a real presence when he plays.'
BreakingNews.ie
2 days ago
- Sport
- BreakingNews.ie
Viktor Gyokeres presented to Arsenal fans ahead of friendly win over Newcastle
New signing Viktor Gyokeres watched on as Arsenal beat Newcastle 3-2 in their pre-season meeting in Singapore. The 27-year-old striker completed his £55million move from Sporting Lisbon to the Gunners on Saturday and was presented to fans at the National Stadium before kick-off on Sunday. Advertisement Great to have you with us, Viktor 👊 — Arsenal (@Arsenal) July 27, 2025 One of Newcastle's new recruits made his impact on the pitch almost instantly as Anthony Elanga fired the Magpies ahead on his first start for the team after slicing home from Sandro Tonali's low cross. However, the Gunners struck twice in quick succession when Mikel Merino tucked home into the bottom corner and two minutes later Alex Murphy turned the ball into his own net. First one. ☝️ — Newcastle United (@NUFC) July 27, 2025 Jacob Murphy equalised for Newcastle after the break with a low finish from outside of the box, but Martin Odegaard snatched victory from the penalty spot in the 84th minute. Arsenal are back in pre-season action against rivals Tottenham on Thursday, while Newcastle face an all-star K League side on Wednesday. Advertisement
