Indonesian National Team Beats Guam 14-0 In The First Match Of The U-17 Asian Cup Qualification, Offerings To The Victims Of Kanjuruhan Tragedy

Indonesian national team players u-17. (Photo: Doc. PSSI)

JAKARTA - The Indonesian national team won the inaugural Grub B qualifying match for the U-17 Asian Cup 2023, Monday, October 3. The Garuda Asia squad won a landslide victory 14-0 over Guam at the Pakansari Stadium, Bogor.

This victory was presented by the Bima Sakti team to the victims of the tragedy at the Kanjuruhan Stadium, Malang.

As is known, the tragedy that occurred on Saturday, October 1, has claimed many victims. More than 100 people have died.

"We are sad because there are so many victims. We hope that this will be the last," Bima said at a press conference after the match, as quoted by Antara.

The 46-year-old tactician also invited all parties to take lessons from this sad event. He also hoped that what happened at Kanjuruhan Malang could mature the supporters.

"That's for the sake of the progress of our football," said Bima.

Not only presenting victory for the victims, but the Indonesian players also took several actions that showed empathy. Like not celebrating goals excessively.

According to Arkhan Kaka who scored four goals against Guam, the no-celebration policy is the result of the team's agreement. "We are currently grieving, so celebrating the goal is natural. Besides honoring the victims, we also thank God who gave us the victory," said Arkhan.

In this match, Garuda Asia also used black bands on their arms as a sign of mourning. The match also started and ended with a moment of silence to honor the victims.

Meanwhile, this victory makes Indonesia temporarily in second place in Group B standings with three points from one match. While the top position is filled by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) which has collected six points from two wins.