Never did I imagine that I would be where I am now. (Thank God)
My name is Mirza Salim, and this is my inspirational football travel story - from suffering stroke TWICE to helping make football fans' dreams come true. If someone told me ten years ago that I'd be running Singapore's premier premium football travel packages Singapore company, I would have laughed.
But life has a funny way of surprising us, doesn't it?
In 2014, I underwent a major life-changing brain surgery. After my surgery, I was paralysed for the 2nd time in my life. (My first paralysis was in 1999.) Those were dark days. Really dark days. I won't lie to you about that.
What kept me going during those difficult times? Football. Specifically, my love for Liverpool FC. Even when I couldn't move properly, I still watched every match. Football gave me hope when everything else seemed impossible.
In 2016, being a lifelong Liverpool fan, after I recovered, one of my dreams was to catch Liverpool play LIVE at Anfield. And I did just that! It was AMAZING and SURREAL to be standing at the Kop to experience the famous atmosphere at Anfield first hand.
Why was that Anfield experience so life-changing? It was a truly unforgettable experience. But here's the thing - it was immediately after the match that my wife had a Eureka moment which altered the course of my life and led to the birth of Matchday Affairs.
This stroke recovery entrepreneur travel story isn't just about me. It's about every football fan who thinks their dreams are too big or too expensive or too complicated. Because if I can do it, so can you.
My Journey: From Hospital Bed to Anfield's Kop
How did two strokes change my perspective on life and football? Let me be honest with you. Suffering two strokes isn't something you ever "get over." You learn to live with it. You learn to appreciate things differently.
After my first paralysis in 1999, I thought I understood struggle. But 2014 hit me like a truck. Major brain surgery. Paralysis again. For a while there, I wasn't sure if I'd ever walk properly again, let alone travel to watch football.
What role did family play in my recovery? My wife stood by me through everything. When doctors said I might not recover fully, she said "We'll see about that." When I felt like giving up, she reminded me about Liverpool's motto: "You'll Never Walk Alone."
During recovery, watching Liverpool on TV wasn't enough anymore. I needed something bigger to aim for. Something that would force me to push harder in physiotherapy. That's when I set my goal: Anfield. LIVE. No matter what it took.
Why was attending Anfield so important for my recovery? The goal of reaching Anfield became my North Star. Every physiotherapy session, every small improvement, every painful step - it was all leading to that moment when I'd stand among 50,000 Liverpool fans singing "You'll Never Walk Alone."
And in 2016, I made it happen.
Standing in the Kop that day, tears streaming down my face, I realized something profound. Football isn't just entertainment for people like us. It's LIFE. It's hope. It's belonging to something bigger than our problems.
That's when my wife said something that changed everything: "Mirza, look around you. See all these fans from different countries? They're just like you. They've saved up, traveled thousands of miles, just for this moment. What if you could help more people experience this?"
BOOM. Eureka moment. Right there in the stadium.
Why I Started Matchday Affairs: It's Personal
What motivated me to turn my passion into a business? After that incredible Anfield experience, I couldn't stop thinking about my wife's words. How many football fans out there are like me? Working hard, saving money, dreaming of experiencing their team LIVE but worried about getting scammed or not knowing how to organize everything properly?
How common are football ticket scams that target international fans? Too common, unfortunately. I've heard horror stories from Singapore fans who lost thousands to fake ticket sellers. Families who traveled to London only to find their "guaranteed" tickets were worthless. It breaks my heart because I know how much these experiences mean to real fans.
That's why I decided to create something different. Something TRUSTWORTHY. Something built by a fan, for fans.
Starting Small: My First Group to Anfield (2017)
In 2017, I started with my first group to Anfield. Just 8 people. I was nervous as hell, to be honest. What if something went wrong? What if the tickets weren't valid? What if people didn't have a good time?
But you know what? It was MAGICAL.
What made that first group trip special? Seeing the faces of those 8 Singapore Liverpool fans when they walked into Anfield for the first time... Man, it reminded me exactly how I felt. That pure joy. That sense of "I can't believe I'm actually here."
One guy, Uncle Robert (62 years old), had been supporting Liverpool for 40 years but never thought he'd see them play live. When Liverpool scored that day, he hugged me and said "Thank you for making an old man's dream come true."
THAT moment. That's when I knew this wasn't just a business. This was my calling.
Making It Official: Matchday Affairs Is Born (2019)
In 2019, we registered Matchday Affairs as an official business entity. It felt surreal, honestly. Me? The guy who could barely walk a few years earlier? Running a football tour agency success story?
What challenges did you face when starting the business officially? The paperwork was the easy part. The hard part was building trust. How do you convince people to give you their hard-earned money for something as important as their dream football experience?
My answer was simple: treat every customer like they're my own family. Because in a way, they are. We're all part of the global football family.
Well, as they say, the rest is history. Never planned for Matchday Affairs to happen. But I'm super grateful it happened. (Thank God)
Our Packages: Dreams Made Real for Every Fan
What makes Matchday Affairs different from other football travel companies? Because this is truly a platform for football fans to help make their dreams come true. The best part is we get to share their joy and the satisfaction knowing we have helped fans make their dreams come true.
Anfield Expedition Package: Where It All Started
Why is the Anfield experience so special for Liverpool fans? This package is personal to me. It's where my journey began. It's where Uncle Robert cried tears of joy. It's where magic happens every matchday.
What's included in our Anfield Expedition Package?
- Guaranteed authentic tickets (no more worrying about scams)
- Pre-match stadium tour with exclusive access areas
- Professional local guide who knows all the best stories
- Transportation from your hotel to the stadium
- Official Liverpool FC merchandise package
- Post-match celebration at a proper Liverpool pub
The atmosphere at Anfield is something you have to experience to believe. When 50,000 fans sing "You'll Never Walk Alone," you'll understand why I traveled 8,000 miles just to be there.
Old Trafford VIP Tour: Theater of Dreams Experience
What makes Old Trafford special for Manchester United fans worldwide? Even as a Liverpool fan, I have massive respect for Old Trafford. The history, the legends, the atmosphere - it's truly the Theater of Dreams.
Why do our customers love the Old Trafford VIP experience? Our Old Trafford VIP tour gives you access to areas most fans never see:
- Player tunnel walk-out experience
- Sir Alex Ferguson Stand hospitality
- Museum tour with exclusive memorabilia
- Meet-and-greet with United legends (when available)
- Executive dining experience
- Professional photography in iconic locations
One of our customers, Sarah from Kuala Lumpur, said it best: "I've supported United for 20 years from Malaysia. Walking through that tunnel where my heroes walked... I got goosebumps."
Emirates Stadium Experience: Arsenal's Modern Marvel
How does Emirates Stadium compare to traditional football grounds? Arsenal's Emirates Stadium represents the modern evolution of football. It's beautiful, sophisticated, and perfect for fans who want premium comfort with their football passion.
What unique features does the Emirates Stadium experience offer?
- Diamond Club access for premium matchday hospitality
- Interactive Arsenal Museum with immersive displays
- Guided tours showcasing the stadium's innovative design
- Fine dining experiences in club restaurants
- Youth development center visits (when available)
- Professional networking opportunities with other international fans
Stamford Bridge Matchday Package: Chelsea's West London Pride
What makes Stamford Bridge unique among London football venues? Chelsea's Stamford Bridge sits in the heart of upscale West London. It's compact, intimate, and creates an incredible atmosphere that makes every fan feel close to the action.
Why do fans choose our Stamford Bridge experience? Our Stamford Bridge matchday package includes:
- Premium seating in the best viewing sections
- Pre-match hospitality in exclusive lounges
- Access to the Chelsea Museum and trophy collection
- West London cultural tour (King's Road shopping, local pubs)
- Professional concierge service throughout your visit
- Personalized match program and team sheet
Why Fans Trust Us: It's About More Than Business
How do you ensure customers get authentic, secure tickets? Listen, I've been scammed before. I know how it feels. That's why every ticket we provide comes with a GUARANTEE. We work directly with official club sources and authorized distributors. No exceptions.
What happens if something goes wrong during a trip? We provide 24/7 support because I remember being in a foreign country feeling lost and confused. Our team is always just a phone call away. Always.
Real Stories from Real Fans
What do customers say about their Matchday Affairs experiences? Let me share some messages that make all the hard work worthwhile:
"Uncle Mirza, thank you so much for the Anfield trip. My son (8 years old) keeps talking about it even now, 6 months later. You didn't just sell us tickets - you gave us memories that will last forever." - David Chen, Singapore
"I was skeptical about booking through a smaller agency, but Mirza's personal touch made all the difference. When my flight was delayed, he personally picked me up from the airport at 2 AM. That's service you can't buy." - Michelle Tan, Johor Bahru
"After being scammed by fake Arsenal tickets last year, I was afraid to try again. Mirza understood my concerns and even video-called me from Emirates Stadium to show me the actual seats before I paid. Trust restored!" - Ahmad Rahman, Kuala Lumpur
Our Promise to Every Fan
What guarantee do you provide for customer satisfaction? Because this business is personal to me, every customer matters. When you book with us, you're not just getting secure football tickets Singapore - you're getting my personal commitment that your dream will come true.
If something goes wrong (and sometimes things do go wrong in travel), we don't just apologize. We FIX it. Because your football dream is as important to me as my own was back in 2016.
Surviving COVID: Our Biggest Challenge Yet
How did COVID-19 impact Matchday Affairs and football travel? And just to share more joy with you, Matchday Affairs is OFFICIALLY 4 years old tomorrow! After COVID, we are proud that we are still surviving. Hooray! A small win for us!
What was the most difficult part of the pandemic for your business? 2020-2021 were the toughest years of my life since my stroke recovery. No travel. No football. No matchday experiences. For a while, I thought we might lose everything we'd built.
But you know what kept me going? Messages from customers saying "Uncle Mirza, when travel opens up again, we want to book with you." That faith from our football family - that's what saved us.
How did you support customers during the pandemic? We didn't just survive COVID - we used the time to get better:
- Improved our booking systems for better customer experience
- Built stronger relationships with clubs and suppliers
- Created virtual stadium tours for fans stuck at home
- Developed flexible booking policies for uncertain times
- Maintained customer relationships through online football events
Now we're back, stronger than ever. Because football always finds a way, doesn't it?
Frequently Asked Questions: Real Answers from Experience
About Booking and Trust
How do I know Matchday Affairs tickets are really authentic? I understand this concern completely. I've been there. Every ticket comes with official documentation, and we provide proof of purchase from authorized sources. Plus, I guarantee every ticket personally. If it's fake, I'll refund you AND pay for your next trip. That's how confident I am.
What if I need to cancel my trip due to emergency? Life happens. I know this better than most. We offer flexible cancellation policies and travel insurance options. We'll work with you to find a solution that's fair for everyone.
How far in advance should I book for popular matches? For big matches (Liverpool vs United, Arsenal vs Tottenham), book at least 3-6 months ahead. But here's the thing - I sometimes get last-minute allocations from clubs. If you have a specific match in mind, call me directly. Let's see what we can do.
About the Experience
What should I expect on my first Premier League matchday? It's going to be OVERWHELMING in the best possible way. The crowds, the singing, the energy - it's unlike anything you've experienced watching on TV. That's why we provide detailed preparation guides and stay with you throughout the experience.
Can you accommodate special dietary requirements or accessibility needs? Absolutely. I believe EVERY fan deserves to experience their football dreams, regardless of physical limitations or dietary restrictions. We work with stadiums to ensure proper accommodations. Just let us know your needs when booking.
What happens if my team loses badly? (Laughs) Hey, it happens to all of us! I've seen Liverpool lose at Anfield, and yes, it hurts. But you know what? Even in defeat, being there with fellow fans, singing through the pain - that's part of the authentic football experience. Plus, we usually head to a good pub afterward to process the emotions properly!
About Costs and Value
Why should I pay more for your packages versus booking everything separately? Good question. You're not just paying for tickets and hotels. You're paying for:
- My personal guarantee that everything will work perfectly
- 24/7 support from someone who genuinely cares about your experience
- Access to experiences and areas that individual travelers can't get
- Peace of mind that comes from working with someone who's been where you are
- The satisfaction of supporting a stroke recovery entrepreneur travel story that helps other fans
Do you offer payment plans for expensive packages? Yes! I understand these trips are significant investments. We offer flexible payment plans because I believe financial constraints shouldn't stop you from fulfilling your football dreams.
How to Start Your Own Football Dream Journey
Step 1: Tell Me Your Story
What's the first step in booking with Matchday Affairs? Call me. Seriously. Or WhatsApp me. Tell me about your football story. Which team do you support? How long have you been a fan? What's your dream matchday experience?
I want to understand what this means to YOU. Because every fan's journey is different, and I want to make sure your experience is perfect for your specific situation.
Step 2: Let's Plan Together
How involved are you in planning each customer's trip? Very involved. I personally review every booking. We'll discuss:
- Your preferred dates and matches
- Your budget and what's most important to you
- Any special occasions (birthdays, anniversaries, father-son trips)
- Your comfort level with different experiences
- Any concerns or questions you have
This isn't a mass-market travel agency. This is personal service from someone who understands exactly what this experience means to you.
Step 3: Experience the Magic
What can I expect during my actual matchday experience? On matchday, you're not just a customer - you're family. I'll be in touch throughout your trip, making sure everything goes smoothly. Our local guides know to treat you like VIPs because that's exactly what you are.
Ready to start your own inspirational football travel story? So if you are reading this and looking for a matchday experience in the UK, do speak with our team. We'll be glad to be of service to you!
WhatsApp me directly at +65 [number] or email mirza@matchdayaffairs.com. Let's talk about making your football dreams come true.
My Promise to You
To many more good years!
What's your personal commitment to future customers? Here's my promise to every football fan reading this: I will treat your dream with the same respect and care that I wanted for my own dream back in 2016.
You're not just booking a trip. You're trusting me with something precious - your football passion and your hard-earned money. I don't take that lightly.
How has building Matchday Affairs changed your life? This journey from stroke to stadium has taught me that our biggest challenges often lead to our greatest purposes. I never planned to become a travel agent. But I'm grateful every day that this happened (Thank God) because it means I get to help other fans experience the same magic I felt at Anfield.
What's next for Matchday Affairs and football fans in Singapore? We're planning new packages, new stadium experiences, and new ways to bring football dreams to life. But our core mission stays the same: treating every customer like family and making sure their matchday experience exceeds even their biggest expectations.
Football taught me that you never walk alone. Whether you're recovering from illness, chasing a dream, or just trying to see your team play live - you don't have to do it alone.
Ready to make your football dreams come true? Contact us today. Let's plan your perfect matchday experience together.
Because every fan deserves to experience their team LIVE. Every fan deserves to feel the magic of 50,000 voices singing as one. Every fan deserves to have their dreams come true.
Yours Sincerely,
Mirza Salim
Founder & Chief Dream Maker
Matchday Affairs
From stroke survivor to your football guide
P.S. If you're still reading this, it means football matters to you as much as it matters to me. Don't let another season pass without experiencing your team live. Life is short, but football memories last forever.
Book your dream matchday experience now: www.matchdayaffairs.com
