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| President Prabowo Subianto personally welcomed the players, coaches, and officials of the Indonesian National Football Team at his private residence on Jalan Kertanegara, Jakarta, on the afternoon of Friday, June 6, 2025. |
Star News INDONESIA, Friday, (06 June 2025). JAKARTA - President Prabowo Subianto warmly received the Indonesian National Football Team at his private residence on Jalan Kertanegara, Jakarta, on Friday afternoon, June 6, 2025. The heartfelt and familial gathering took place just one day after the team’s crucial victory against the People's Republic of China in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers.
State-Owned Enterprises Minister and Chairman of the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI), Erick Thohir, stated that the President's invitation to his private home was a deeply meaningful gesture of appreciation for the players.
“I believe the coach and players truly felt the extraordinary appreciation from the President. This wasn’t held at the State Palace—it was at his private residence. So they felt a sense of family. The President welcomed them as family. We know the players have sacrificed so much for our country. The President truly values that,” said Erick in a press statement following the meeting.
In a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, the national team shared a lunch with President Prabowo. Team captain Jay Idzes expressed his deep appreciation for the memorable gathering.
“We had a very enjoyable lunch together. After yesterday’s victory, President Prabowo wanted to celebrate it with us. We really appreciate the President for inviting us to his home. We had the chance to meet President Prabowo and his family. We are very grateful and had a lot of fun,” said Jay.
Beyond lunch, the camaraderie grew even stronger as the players joined in a group singalong.
“We all sang together. It was really fun. Most of our lunch was filled with singing. That shows the strong bond we share,” Jay added.
Head coach Patrick Kluivert also expressed his gratitude for President Prabowo’s invitation, stating that the team is fully motivated for the final qualifying match.
“We truly appreciate the invitation from President Prabowo. We’re very grateful for the fantastic win yesterday, and we’re building towards a brighter future,” said Patrick.
The gathering not only served as moral support ahead of the next crucial match, but also strengthened the emotional bond between the players and President Prabowo. In the warm and familial atmosphere, the spirit of the Garuda and the Red-and-White flag burned even brighter among the team.
Also present at the meeting alongside President Prabowo were Minister of State Secretariat Prasetyo Hadi and Cabinet Secretary Teddy Indra Wijaya.
Editor : Wiwid/Maria Patricia