Jakarta, October 6, 2026 – The Europe Today: Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto has praised the national football team for its fighting spirit and determination after securing a historic victory in the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup.
Speaking to reporters at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium following the final on Monday, President Prabowo expressed pride and gratitude for the team’s performance, particularly its refusal to give up during 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.
He described the team’s performance as an example of a spirit of perseverance, emphasizing that determination and a refusal to surrender could lead to success.
Indonesia defeated Thailand 4–2 in a penalty shootout after the two sides played to a 2–2 draw through extra time, claiming the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup title before a capacity crowd in Jakarta.
Indonesia took the lead through Dean James in the 84th minute, but Thailand quickly equalized through Iklas Sanron. Thailand then moved ahead in extra time through Peeradol Chamrasamee before Elkan Baggott restored parity for Indonesia.
In the penalty shootout, Kevin Diks, Dean James, Elkan Baggott and Shayne Pattynama converted their attempts. Indonesia goalkeeper Emil Audero saved one Thai penalty, while another struck the post, securing the historic victory.
Following the match, President Prabowo joined FIFA President Gianni Infantino in presenting medals to the match officials, Thailand’s runners-up and the Indonesian champions. The two officials then presented the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup trophy to Indonesian captain Kevin Diks.
The triumph marks a landmark achievement for Indonesian football and the country’s first international football trophy outside its previous Southeast Asian Games gold-medal successes.
