Menpora Calls Bahrain Tricks To Ask For Match Against Indonesia In A Neutral Place
JAKARTA The security for the Bahrain national team is guaranteed to be well maintained when traveling to the headquarters of the Indonesian national team in Jakarta in the Third Round of the 2026 World Cup Qualification.
Previously, it was known that the Bahrain Football Association (BFA) asked that the location of the duel against Indonesia be played in neutral places for security reasons. The request is also being considered by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) through an official release on Friday, October 18, 2024.
The Minister of Youth and Sports (Menpora), Dito Ariotedjo, said that Indonesia has proven successful in organizing several important events so that Bahrain does not need to worry about security.
"Oh sure (security for Bahrain while in Indonesia will be guaranteed). In my opinion, it could be Bahrain," said Dito when met at the Kemenpora Office, Senayan, Jakarta.
Bahrain refused to play in Indonesia because of comments on the threat of netizens milling about on social media. This happened after a 2-2 draw at Bahrain headquarters on October 10, 2024.
The draw was in the spotlight because referee Ahmed Al Kaf's leadership was considered controversial. He was accused of being one-sided so that the Garuda Squad had to settle for one point. In fact, the victory of the Indonesian national team was in sight.
Dito said that he had met with the General Chair of the All-Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) regarding Bahrain's objection to playing the eighth matchday of Group C for the Third Round of the 2026 World Cup Qualification on March 25, 2025.
"How do we hold the U-17 World Cup and the Indonesian national team matches which are already very friendly. So, there is no reason for security in Indonesia," said Dito.
All teams in Group C have so far played four matches. Of the four matches, Indonesia has to settle for the fifth position in the standings.
Shin Tae-yong's team collected three points from three draws and one defeat. This position made the Indonesian chance to qualify directly for the 2026 World Cup finals smaller.