2023 Asian Cup: Menpora Optimistic Indonesian National Team Qualifies For The Last 16

Menpora Dito Ariotedjo plans to directly support the Indonesian national team in the 2023 Asian Cup (doc. Kemenpora).

JAKARTA - Minister of Youth and Sports (Menpora), Dito Ariotedjo, is optimistic that the opportunity for the Indonesian national team to enter the last 16 of the 2023 Asian Cup will be open.

The Garuda squad will start their journey in Group D of the 2023 Asian Cup against Iraq at Ahmed bin Ali Stadium, Qatar, Monday, January 15, 2024, at 21.30 WIB.

The Minister of Youth and Sports said that Indonesia's chances of going to the knockout stages still exist even though it has to face strong teams from Iraq, Japan, and Vietnam in Group D.

"If you look at the preparation and regulations of the Indonesian national team, I am optimistic, yes. Hopefully (it can pass the round of 16)," said Dito when met at the Menpora Office.

Furthermore, Dito said he had the intention to directly support Shin Tae Yong's team to Qatar if his agenda was free.

"God willing, if the schedule fits I will go there," he said.

In addition, Dito also advised the Garuda squad to show their fighting spirit in the 2023 Asian Cup.

"I hope the players can calm down. Make the support and enthusiasm of the Indonesian people for you not as pressure, but as a spirit of energy," he said.

In total there are 24 teams competing in the 2023 Asian Cup. Two teams that finish as winners and group runners-up will automatically qualify for the knockout round.

In addition, the four best third-placed teams will get tickets to complete the knockout stages. The Indonesian national team can hope to qualify through the best third-placed route if they can't become champions or runners-up.