Due to additional security measures, the Singapore Sports Hub has advised all fans who are going for tonight's Singapore v Argentina football friendly match to arrive at the National Stadium at least one hour before kick-off.

Despite more security personnel deployed for recent events such as last Saturday's rugby Test match between Italy and Scotland, about 75 per cent of patrons arrive in the last 30 minutes before an event starts at the National Stadium.

This resulted in many of them clearing the security screening only after the event has begun.

For tonight's match, more than 20,000 fans are expected to turn up for the game, which will kick off at 8pm.

The Sports Hub has deployed additional security personnel and gates will open at 6.30pm. To facilitate security checks and ensure faster screenings, the Sports Hub has also advised fans to bring only what is needed.

There will be an "Express Lane" for patrons without bags, and as per the usual conditions of entry, bags exceeding the size of 35cm x 20cm x 30cm and selfie sticks are not allowed into the National Stadium.

Chin Sau Ho, the Sports Hub's senior director (corporate communications and stakeholder management), said: "In addition to the security measures put in place by our security team, we work closely with the relevant security agencies, including the Singapore Police Force (SPF) and Singapore Civil Defence Force, to monitor and assess risk levels, and safeguard the integrity of our venues for all who come here for work and play.

"Patrons can rest assured that our security measures at every event meet the requirements set by the licensing authorities and SPF."

Alvin Chia