In the Asian Qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, Indonesia is in Group C with Australia, Japan, China, and other teams.
On August 11th, the Indonesian Football Association announced that their first home match, scheduled for September 10th against Australia, is now open for ticket sales. However, there has been a change in the venue.
The match was initially set to take place at Gelora Bung Tomo Stadium in Surabaya, Indonesia’s second-largest city, with a capacity of 46,806. But the Indonesian Football Association is currently in discussions with relevant parties to move the venue to Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in the capital, Jakarta, which has a capacity of 77,000.
Previously, due to turf replacement, the Indonesian Football Association considered abandoning the game at this venue. However, the management informed the association that the turf project was completed ahead of schedule, leading to the decision to change the venue.
In recent years, football passion in Indonesia has surged, resulting in a significant increase in their competitiveness in Asia. In the U-23 Asian Cup, which doubled as the Paris Olympic qualifiers, Indonesia defeated Australia and South Korea, eliminating both countries from the competition.
Indonesia aims to return to the World Cup for the first time in 88 years. Although Australia defeated Indonesia in the Asian Cup in January, they will face a greater challenge this time. With the change in venue, Australia will be met with the “siege” of 70,000 Indonesian fans, creating a less friendly atmosphere.
A spokesperson for the Indonesian Football Association stated, “We will strive to ensure that more fans can watch the game against Australia.” This match also coincides with the 79th anniversary of Indonesia’s independence. Indonesia calls on the entire nation to come together in support, aiming to defeat Australia.
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