Hampden boss expects London Olympics clash between Spain & Japan to be a sell out

Jul 19 2012 By Gordon Parks

Hampden

GLASGOW football fans are gearing up for Hampden’s Olympic experience by selling-out the national stadium for World and Euro champions Spain's clash against Japan.

There had been dismal ticket sale forecasts for the eight matches featuring both men and women's football at the home of Scottish Football

But a late rush by fans and Scottish government handouts will see fans flock to Mount Florida for at least one of the eight matches.

Euro 2012 champions Spain will field three players who were part of their triumphant squad in the shape of Jordi Alba, Juan Manuel Mata and Javi Martinez.

A scheme to give away Olympic football tickets for free for matches in Scotland has been extended.

Venue media manager Andy Mitchell is convinced Glasgow will embrace the chance to show their legendary obession with the game.

He said: “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity and Hampden will be hosting something which is unique for the football fan.

“We have seen from ticket sales that there are many familes taking the chance to get to watch football which is both historic for Scotland as well as being geared towards all that is good about the game.

“We are expecting a sell-out for the Spain game and fans going to that will get two matches for the price of one as Honduras are playing Morocco after that game is over.

“The opening match is the woman’s game with USA taking on France and ticket sales are already at the 30,000 mark so it’s going to be another terrific familyfriendly atmposphere.”

Last week, Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon announced that 50,000 tickets would be given away through schools and this has now been extended to sport clubs, charities and youth projects.

Sturgeon said: “This is an exceptional opportunity for children and young people in Scotland to be part of the Olympic experience.”

The fixtures are – Wednesday July 25 (Women) – USA v France (5pm), Colombia vs Korea DPR (7.45pm).

Thursday July 26 (Men) – Spain v Japan (12 noon), Honduras v Morocco (2.45pm).

Saturday 28 July 28 (Women) – USA v Colombia (5pm), France Vs Korea DPR (7.45pm).

Wednesday August 1 (Men) – Egypt v Belarus (2.30pm).

Friday August 3 (Women) – Quarter-final (12 noon)

Tickets start at £20 with “pay your age” prices available for youngsters 16 and under and seniors aged 60 and over.
Tickets can be purchased at www.tickets.london2012.com