JAKARTA - The Indonesian national team ended their 32-year wait by winning the 2023 SEA Games Cambodia gold medal. This is Merah Putih's first gold medal in football since 1991.
The Garuda Nusantara squad won the gold medal by defeating Thailand in the final, Tuesday, May 16. This match had to go through two extra rounds and ended with a score of 5-2 for Indonesia's victory.
Chairman of the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) Erick Thohir expressed his gratitude that Indonesia was able to repay its historic debt of winning SEA Games gold, which was last won 32 years ago.
"Alhamdulillah, we have been waiting for 32 years to see the Indonesian football team win today. Thank you to all the players, coaches and officials. We dedicate this gold to all Indonesian people," said PSSI chairman Erick Thohir after the final match, Tuesday.
Erick appreciated all the sweat, hard work, and sacrifices given by the U-22 national team squad. Starting from players, coaches, to staff and officials. According to Erick, this is proof that Indonesia is a tough nation and is able to work together for one goal.
"Today, Indonesian children, who are generally under the age of 22, prove that we are a tough, hardworking nation and able to work together to be the best," said Erick Thohir, as reported by the PSSI's official website via Antara.
After the match, Erick immediately reported to President Joko Widodo. Erick thanked President Jokowi who totally fully supported the Indonesian national team from the start.
"Thank you, Mr. President. This is a mission that has been very serious from the start, Mr. President has been very serious in pushing for Indonesian football to excel. Thank God, finally the mission and the expectation of a champion have come true today," said Erick.
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