Prabowo praises Indonesia's fighting spirit after ASEAN Cup triumph

..it is an example of a spirit that knows no surrender, showing that we can succeed,

Jakarta (ANTARA) - President Prabowo Subianto praised the Indonesian national football team’s fighting spirit following their thrilling victory over Thailand in the 2026 FIFA ASEAN Cup final at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium on Monday (October 5).

Speaking to reporters after the match, President Prabowo expressed pride and gratitude for the squad’s relentless determination throughout 120 minutes of dramatic action.

"We are happy, we are grateful, and we are proud of our team's struggle. They did not give up until the final moments," Prabowo said at the stadium in Senayan, Jakarta.

"I think it is an example of a spirit that knows no surrender, showing that we can succeed," the President added.

Indonesia claimed the championship with a 4-2 victory in a penalty shootout after the two Southeast Asian rivals battled to a 2-2 draw through extra time.

Dean James put Indonesia ahead in the 84th minute, but Thailand responded almost immediately through Iklas Sanron in the 86th minute to send the game into extra time.

Thailand then took a 2-1 lead through Peeradol Chamrasamee in the 111th minute, before Elkan Baggott scored a dramatic equalizer in the 114th minute to force a penalty shootout.

In the shootout, Kevin Diks, Dean James, Elkan Baggott, and Shayne Pattynama converted all four of Indonesia's attempts.

Indonesia goalkeeper Emil Audero saved Nattaphon Sayriya's attempt, while Sarach Yooyen struck the post, sealing the historic win for the host nation.

Following the match, President Prabowo joined FIFA President Gianni Infantino in presenting medals to the match officials, runners-up Thailand, and the winning Indonesian squad.

Prabowo and Infantino then presented the inaugural 2026 FIFA ASEAN Cup trophy to Indonesian team captain Kevin Diks before joining the team's victory celebration on the pitch.

Related news: Indonesia wins FIFA ASEAN Cup after shootout victory over Thailand

Translator: Fathur Rochman, Yashinta Difa
Editor: M Razi Rahman
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