The Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (GBK) erupted in jubilation on Thursday night as President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, attended the crucial World Cup Qualifier match between Indonesia and China.
Wearing a white jacket bearing the number 08 and a Garuda emblem on the chest, Prabowo entered the stadium to roaring cheers from tens of thousands of fans. Supporters stood in unison, chanting spirited yells and capturing the President’s presence with their phone cameras. He responded with waves and his signature warm smile.
The atmosphere reached its peak as Prabowo stood in the main tribune, visibly encouraging the national team players. Emotions soared when the final whistle blew, sealing Indonesia’s 1–0 victory over China—a result that keeps the Garuda squad’s hopes alive in the race for a World Cup berth.
“We’re grateful for this win,” Prabowo said after the match. Not content with watching from the stands, the President descended onto the pitch to personally salute the players for their spirited performance.
He also expressed strong optimism about Indonesia’s chances moving forward in the qualifiers. “The road ahead is still tough—we have to beat Japan,” he noted, before delivering a message that ignited renewed hope among Indonesian football fans:
“But God willing, maybe this time we’re lucky. Maybe this time we make it to the World Cup.”
The President’s presence was seen as more than symbolic; it underscored that sports—especially football—are a vital part of the national agenda in fostering unity and collective pride.
With this victory over China, Indonesia’s dream of making history on the global stage feels more within reach than ever.
