JAKARTA - The U-22 national team coach, Indra Sjafri, shared a thrilling moment when he and his team were waiting for the results of the FIFA announcement regarding sanctions against Indonesia. Claiming to be wary, the coach and team were finally relieved and grateful because the sanctions given were quite light.
Indra Sjafri said that after FIFA revoked its host status and a shadow of severe sanctions emerged, the players in the U-22 national team were also worried about the continuity of their fate. Moreover, it was previously known that the U-22 national team was prepared to appear at the 2023 SEA Games in Cambodia in May.
"Very wary, even the players hope to be worried about whether their fate will also be the same as that of the U-20 national team," explained Indra Sjafri after the thanksgiving ceremony at the Sultan Hotel on Friday, April 7 evening WIB.
This concern arises because if FIFA imposes severe sanctions, it means that football activities in the country are also frozen. This will clearly affect the opportunity for the U-22 national team, including to appear in the SEA Games.
But fortunately, good news came from FIFA on Thursday, April 6 evening WIB because the sanctions given were only in the form of administration. This news was immediately welcomed by Indra Sjafri and also the entire team.
"Alhamdulillah, it was midnight last night, we got the news (about FIFA sanctions) and they were very happy," explained Indra Sjafri, who was also happy in front of the media crew.
Welcoming this news, Indra Sjafri also explained that happiness was felt when the U-22 national team players underwent training sessions. He said the players looked so motivated to welcome the 2023 SEA Games.
"This afternoon (excitement) was shown by the players, it can be seen with different motivations from friends during training," said the coach from West Sumatra.
After it is certain that they can appear at the 2023 SEA Games, the U-22 national team will continue the training agenda in preparation for leaving for Cambodia on April 25. But before that, the Garuda Nusantara squad will first pass the trial agenda four times with the local team and the Lebanese national team.
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