PSSI Chairman Targets Indonesia To Play At The 2038 World Cup, Strategic Steps Are Set In Blue Printing

JAKARTA - Chairman of the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) Erick Thohir said Indonesia is targeted to have played in the World Cup in 2038.

The target is stated in the blueprint for the transformation of Indonesian football which was recently handed over to the International Football Federation (FIFA).

"In the blueprint, it is clear that if we want to enter the World Cup, then in 2038. That is if we want, not as hosts," said Erick at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, Friday, April 14 evening.

To meet that target, a number of strategic steps need to be taken. Among them are preparing the best national talent at all age levels that are synergized with the league.

Erick said that the preparations would include improving football schools (SSB) and holding league competitions at the school level. Things can follow the example of countries like Japan.

"Yes, preparations from U-9, U-10, U-11, U-12 and synergized with the league system. It's just a matter of how we benchmark with Japan to create a school league with SSB," said the figure who is the Minister of SOEs.

The Blueprint transformation of Indonesian football was made following the direction of President Joko Widodo. This blue print contains strategic plans both short-term and also long-term.

One of the long-term targets in the Indonesian football blueprint is to host the World Cup in 2042.