100 Days Towards The Indonesian U-20 World Cup, Menpora Asks All Communities To Cooperate

Menpora Zainudin Amali. (Doc. Kemenpora Site)

JAKARTA - Minister of Youth and Sports (Menpora) Zainudin Amali asked all people to work hand in hand in the success of the 2023 U-20 World Cup in Indonesia.

This was conveyed by Amali during the "100 Days Towards the Indonesian U-20 2023 World Cup" at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (SUGBK), Senayan, Jakarta, Thursday, February 9, 2023.

"We must inform all Indonesian raykat that this event is the work of all Indonesian people. I appeal to all parties, please support the preparation of the Indonesian national team for this World Cup," said the Menpora in his remarks.

He continued, as the first major football event organized by Indonesia, all parties need to prioritize national interests in addition to other achievements.

"This is a national interest. We must always put forward. It is difficult, but if Merah Putih has called, more than that is sacrificed," he said.

Apart from the Menpora, the General Chairperson of PSSI Mochamad Iriawan, PSSI Technical Director Indra Sjafri, and Vivin Cahyani Executive Committee Member were present.

After remarks from the Menpora and the General Chairperson of PSSI, the event continued with a penalty kick to calculate the withdrawal to kick off the U-20 World Cup.

The two symbolic penalties were carried out by Iriawan and the coach of the Indonesian national team, Shin Tae Yong. Meanwhile, Amali stepped forward to be the goalkeeper.

The most prestigious age group event will take place in Indonesia from May 20 to June 11, 2023. Six stadiums will also be used for events attended by the 24 countries.

Indonesia as the host has automatically got one ticket to become a contestant. Shin Tae Yong's squad will later be included in Group A.

So far, 14 countries have confirmed themselves to play in the event, including Indonesia. The other 13 countries are Brazil, Uruguay, Italy, England, Slovakia, Fiji, New Zealand, the United States, Honduras, the Dominican Republic, Gutemala, France, and Israel.