Hold On To A Draw Australia, Jokowi Praises The Struggle Of The Indonesian National Team Goalkeeper Maarten Paes

President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) greeted the goalkeeper of the Indonesian National Team Maarten Paes when they hosted Australia in the 2026 World Cup qualifying match at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Tuesday 10 September 2024 (Doc: State Secretariat)

JAKARTA - President Joko Widodo (Jokowi) appreciated the struggle of the Indonesian national team, especially goalkeeper Maarten Paes, who managed to withstand Australia's draw in the group C match for the third round of the Asian Zone 2026 World Cup qualifiers at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium (SUGBK), Senayan, Jakarta, Tuesday 10 September 2024.

After the match, Jokowi expressed his gratitude for Indonesia adding one more point. Indonesia vs Australia ended in a 0-0 draw.

So satisfied with Tuesday night's match, Jokowi even praised the players' play, especially the Indonesian national team goalkeeper Maarten Paes.

"I think the game is amazing with the hard work struggle of all the players, especially the goalkeeper!" praised Jokowi late Tuesday.

Jokowi also expressed his gratitude for Indonesia adding one more point. Indonesia vs Australia ended in a 0-0 draw.

"Yes, we should be grateful, thank God we got one more point. After yesterday with Saudi Arabia got one point, this is also Australia getting one more point. We hope that with one point savings, one point, maybe three points later. We hope for this," said Jokowi.

He admitted that he was very enthusiastic and satisfied with the match played by the Indonesian national team tonight.

"Yes, if we can see for ourselves, this is careful, Australia is ranked 24, we are ranked 24, we are 131, look there, 131 opponents ranked 24. Can keep a draw, get one point," said Jokowi proudly.

While watching the Indonesian vs Australia national team match tonight, Jokowi was accompanied by two grandchildren, namely Jan Ethes and La Lembah Manah.

When he arrived in front of GBK, Ethes even proudly showed off the Garuda on the red jersey he was wearing. Ethes' enthusiasm was also seen while watching the match with joy in supporting the Indonesian national team.