Ahead of Japan Match, President Prabowo: Stay Confident, We Are a Great Nation

Chairman of the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI), Erick Thohir, delivers a press statement to the journalists following the meeting between the players, coaches, and officials of the Indonesian National Football Team and President Prabowo at the President’s private residence on Jalan Kertanegara, Jakarta, on Friday (06/06) afternoon. (Photo by: BPMI of Presidential Secretariat)

Ahead of the match against the Japanese National Football Team in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers, President Prabowo Subianto conveyed several important messages to the players, coaches, and officials of the Indonesian National Football Team. The messages were delivered during a meeting held on Friday (06/06) at the President’s private residence on Jalan Kertanegara, Jakarta.

Chairman of the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI), Erick Thohir, explained that although Indonesia has already secured a spot in the playoff round, President Prabowo emphasized the importance of maintaining peak performance in the upcoming match against Japan. “The President reminded us that although we have made it through to the playoffs, we must still focus and give our best against Japan. Just because we have advanced does not mean we can take it easy. That is not the spirit the President wants to nurture in our nation. We must keep fighting,” Erick said during a press briefing after the meeting.

Furthermore, President Prabowo also lifted the team’s spirits with his remarks so all players can stay confident when facing a strong team like Japan. “The President told us not to feel inferior. We are a great nation, and we must be brave enough to face any opponent,” Erick affirmed.

The Indonesian National Team is scheduled to depart for Japan on Saturday (06/07). According to team captain Jay Idzes, the team has shifted its full focus to the upcoming match.

“We will focus on the final match because it still matters. But of course, we are very happy to have reached the next round. Still, as I said, we have one more game to go, and it is important for us,” Jay said.

Jay also confirmed that there were no significant issues ahead of the match. “We know our next match is against Japan. But as I mentioned earlier, right now we are celebrating our previous victory. And starting today, we shift our focus to Japan,” he added.

Head coach Patrick Kluivert also expressed that the Indonesian National Team would travel to Osaka with a positive spirit and a well-prepared strategy. “What is most important is that the players understand what they need to do. We will approach the match with confidence and fight wholeheartedly for Indonesia,” Patrick explained.

Commenting on the strength of the opponent, Patrick acknowledged that Japan is a solid team. Nevertheless, he believes his players will put up their best fight. “They are at the top of the group. They have a very strong squad. But we will also show the skills we have,” Patrick said.

President Prabowo concluded his support with a simple yet meaningful message to the players: “Fight with all your heart, enjoy the game, and give your best for the country. That is what truly matters.”

With the fighting spirit and motivation from President Prabowo, the Indonesian National Team stands ready to deliver their best performance against Japan. (BPMI of the Presidential Secretariat) (AY/MMB)