President Prabowo Subianto watches the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers match between Indonesia and China at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, Jakarta, on Thursday (6/5). (Photo by: BPMI of Presidential Secretariat)
President Prabowo Subianto Thursday (6/5) watched the crucial moment when the Indonesian National Team gained a 1- 0 victory over China at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, Jakarta in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers match.
His presence amid thousands of supporters in the stadium was proof of his full support for the Garuda Squad’s struggle towards the world stage.
Cheers and chants echoed from the moment the players entered the field. A solemn moment followed when the Chinese national anthem and Indonesia Raya were sung.
At 8.45 p.m. local time, the referee from Uzbekistan, Rustam Lutfullin, blew the whistle to signal the start of the match. The Indonesian national team appeared in their proud red jersey, while the away team China wore a white uniform.
This match determined Indonesia’s position in Group C after Australia was confirmed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup after defeating Japan 1-0 in the previous match.
Victory is “a must’ for Indonesia to secure a top-four position in the group and advance to the fourth round of the World Cup Qualifiers.
The Indonesia’s only goal was scored by Ole Romeny at the end of the first half. A penalty was awarded after Ricky Kambuaya was brought down by Chinese defender Yang Zexiang. The score 1-0 closed the first half for the home team’s advantage.
In the second half, Indonesia almost doubled their lead in the 78th minute through synergy between Beckham Putra and Kevin Diks.
Beckham’s pass to the right side was received with a hard shot from Kevin, but was successfully blocked by the Chinese goalkeeper Wang Dalei. The loose ball fell to Ole Romeny’s feet, but his shot was still just wide of the goal.
The referee blew a long whistle to mark Indonesia’s victory over China. The stadium was full in cheers of joy. President Prabowo stood up and clapped, expressing his appreciation for the players’ hard work.
After the match, President Prabowo went down to the field to congratulate the Indonesian National Team players. He greeted them one by one – the players and officials – to express his pride over the Garuda Squad’s performance.
A number of ministers from the Red and White cabinet were also seen watching the match alongside the President. (BPMI of Presidential Secretariat) (JAS/EP)
