This Is PSSI Response After Indonesia Failed To Host The 2023 Asian Cup

PSSI General Chair Mochamad Iriawan and AFC President Shaikh Salman bin Ebrahim Al Khalifa (Photo: PSSI)

JAKARTA - The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) decision regarding the host of the 2023 Asian Cup has been determined. Qatar was appointed as the organizer to replace China.

The final announcement regarding the host of the 2023 Asian Cup was made by AFC in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Monday. On that occasion, representatives of PSSI, Mochamad Iriawan as chairman, Iwan Budianto as deputy and Yunus Nusi who is the Secretary General were also present.

The choice of Qatar destroyed the hopes of Indonesia and South Korea in the submission process. Even though he failed to be appointed as the host, PSSI continued to be heartened and congratulated him.

"Congratulations to Qatar for hosting the 2023 Asian Cup," said Iriawan in a statement on PSSI's official website.

For the federation, being able to participate in the bidding has become a great opportunity that will be used as a valuable experience. Moreover, it can be side by side with more established countries such as Qatar, South Korea, and Australia.

Despite failing to host, Indonesia has made other advantages. Iriawan said this could make Indonesia focus more on other aspects, such as the team's preparation to appear in the tournament.

Indonesia will prepare a team as best as possible," Iriawan added.

After the AFC determines the host for the 2023 Asian Cup, it will then be determined about the time of the event. This is because the 18th edition of the competition was actually scheduled for June to July, but at that time it was considered inefficient considering the weather in Qatar was at the peak of the summer.

Therefore, there is an option that the competition can be held at the end of the year, such as the 2022 World Cup or early 2024. However, this option must be considered carefully because some players can not be released by the club in the championship.