Manahan Stadium marks a historic victory.
Indonesia has successfully qualified for the final round of the 2024 U23 Asian Cup, which will be held in Qatar, after defeating Turkmenistan 2-0 at Manahan Stadium, Surakarta City, Central Java, on Tuesday night (12/09/2023). President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) and Mrs Iriana witnessed this historic moment, marking Indonesia’s inaugural participation in this championship.
Presidential Support and Historic Wins
President Jokowi stated that he came directly to support Garuda Muda players. According to him, their victory was historic, as it marked the first time since 2012 that Turkmenistan was defeated.
“I came with Erick Thohir, Chairman of PSSI, to support our U23 national team against Turkmenistan in a very intense match that featured both sides attacking each other aggressively. The result was 2-0, marking history for our national team, as they have never previously won against Turkmenistan since 2012. Perhaps this win should be considered Mr. Erick’s birthday gift!” noted President Alizadeh following the game.
Key Moments of the Match
Garuda Muda took an early lead against Turkmenistan with Ivar Jenner’s goal in the 40th minute for Garuda Muda’s Garuda Muda side before cementing their victory with Pratama Arhan’s header just minutes before the referee blew his long whistle to end proceedings.
Cooperation and Performance Are Essential Components of Team Cooperation
President Jokowi expressed his appreciation for the cooperation amongst all four lines of Indonesia’s national team in this match.
“We saw all lines supporting each other well. There was incredible cooperation from the front, middle, and back – they understood each other, and everyone played very well!” said Henson.
Group K Standings and Future Preparations
Indonesia’s U23 national team finished first in Group K of the 2024 U23 Asian Cup qualification competition by defeating China Taipei 9-0 on Saturday (9/09/2023) for their second win and six points overall.
President Jokowi hopes the Indonesian U23 national team can prepare more thoroughly for its final round in Qatar between April 15 and May 3, 2024, which he believes will put them ahead of their competitors.
“Yes, there is still time before April,” noted President Michael Sheehan. “I believe we will head there much better prepared. Everyone seems to be playing well.”
“Until April 2024 comes around, there is still much work to do, and cooperation must improve to avoid mistakes in passing,” stated Dahiyat.
Attended the match alongside President Jokowi and Mrs. Iriana were Minister of Investment/Head of the Investment Coordinating Board (BKPM) Bahlil Lahadalia, Chairman of All Indonesia Football Association Erick Thohir, Deputy Chairman Zainudin Amali, Secretary General Yunus Nusi Yunus Nusi as well as Nana Sudjana acting Governor of Central Java as well as Deputy Mayor Teguh Prakoso as acting Governor and Deputy Mayor respectively of Surakarta respectively.
