"The 2023 SEA Games Gold Medal In Cambodia Is The Beginning," Said PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir

PSSI General Chair Erick Thohir. (Photo: Doc. PSSI)

JAKARTA - The U-22 Indonesian national team won the Cambodia 2023 SEA Games gold medal after defeating Thailand with a score of 5-2 in the final, Tuesday, May 16. This is Indonesia's first title since 1991.

Chairman of the All-Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) Erick Thohir gave his appreciation for all the sweat, hard work, and sacrifice made by the U-22 team squad. Starting from players, coaches, to staff and officials.

Erick admitted that he was touched to see how the players fell up and were tireless throughout the match. According to him, Indonesia has been made proud by the players' struggles, sacrifices, and mental determination until the end of the song.

"This is the pride of all Indonesian people. Today we are one, from the audience at the stadium to all the people in remote Indonesia who witnessed the screen together with the players on the field. One prayer, one hope, and one happiness," said Erick.

Erick said this result was the starting point for the Indonesian football team's journey to achieve higher hopes.

"This SEA Games Gold will be the starting point. The national team will continue to improve, hone its skills. Because our target is not to stop in Cambodia," said the SOE Minister.

"However, Cambodia is the beginning of our football journey to achieve higher hopes at a higher level," concluded the former president of the Milan Intet club.

As previously reported, Garuda Muda did not easily win over Thailand. After winning 2-0 in the first half, Thailand was able to equalize to 2-2 before normal time ended.

However, Indonesia was then able to secure a gold medal thanks to three additional goals during the additional time period.