As Indonesia continues its long journey toward the 2026 World Cup, the national team faces challenges from both opponents on the field and outside influences. The latest controversy stems from FIFA’s decision to appoint Kuwaiti referee Ahmad Al Ali to officiate Indonesia’s crucial match against Saudi Arabia on October 9, 2025, at the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah.
The Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) considers this decision unwise because, like Saudi Arabia, Kuwait belongs to the West Asian region.
This raises doubts about neutrality. For Indonesia, the match is too important to be affected by non-technical factors, which PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir often refers to as the “X-factor.”
Removing the Harmful "X-Factor"
The "X-factor" that Erick refers to is not related to player quality or team strategy, but rather to external elements that could put Indonesia at a disadvantage. These include controversial referee decisions, limited facilities in the host country, and restrictions placed on supporters. He stressed that all of these could affect the outcome, even if the team performs at its best on the field.
For this reason, PSSI has submitted an official request to FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), urging that referees assigned to Indonesia’s matches against Saudi Arabia and Iraq come from outside the Middle East. Ideally, officials from Europe or other regions without regional interests would be preferable.
PSSI’s Official Protest
Indonesia’s national team manager, Sumardji, confirmed that a letter of protest has already been sent to FIFA and the AFC. However, as of now, no response has been received.
“We want a referee who is truly neutral, possibly from Europe or elsewhere, someone who has no stake in the region,” Sumardji said as he sent off the Garuda squad for Saudi Arabia (October 2).
According to him, Indonesia’s negative experiences with refereeing in the Middle East are nothing new. While he refrained from going into specifics, he emphasized that Indonesian football fans are well aware of how match officials in the region have treated the national team in the past.
FIFA Stands Firm on Its Decision
Meanwhile, FIFA, through an official letter dated September 12, 2025, confirmed the appointment of Ahmad Al Ali as the referee for Indonesia’s clash against Saudi Arabia. The letter, signed by Gordon Savic, FIFA’s Head of Qualifiers and International Matches, was also copied to the AFC.
For PSSI, this decision remains questionable. Team manager Sumardji stressed that the federation has yet to receive any response to their protest.
“As of today, there has been no information, no notification, nothing at all regarding our objection,” said Sumardji.
Neutrality at Stake
PSSI emphasized that this request is not solely for Indonesia’s benefit but to safeguard the integrity of the competition. In the final qualifying phase, only group winners earn a direct ticket to the 2026 World Cup, while second-place teams must fight through the intercontinental playoffs.
With such a tight format, every decision on the pitch could determine a team’s fate. For Indonesia, having a neutral referee is non-negotiable.
“We demand referees who are completely fair and impartial to safeguard the integrity of these matches,” Sumardji insisted.
Decisive Fixtures Ahead
Two crucial matches await the Indonesian national team. On October 9, 2025, at 00:15 WIB, Indonesia will face Saudi Arabia. Just three days later, on October 12, 2025, at 02:30 WIB, Iraq will be the next opponent.
These fixtures could decide whether Indonesia makes history by qualifying for the World Cup. Not only the Indonesian public but also Southeast Asia will be watching Garuda’s journey.
The Squad Ready for Battle
Despite the refereeing controversy, Indonesia’s squad is now bolstered by talents competing in top leagues worldwide. Maarten Paes (FC Dallas), Emil Audero (Cremonese), and Jay Idzes (Sassuolo) headline the roster.
At the back, Jordi Amat (Persija), Kevin Diks (Borussia Mönchengladbach), and Sandy Walsh (Buriram United) add strength. Midfield is anchored by Thom Haye (Persib) and Joey Pelupessy (Lommel). Up front, Indonesia will rely on the attacking prowess of Egy Maulana Vikri (Dewa United), Ragnar Oratmangoen (Dender), and Ole Romeny (Oxford United).
This lineup shows that Garuda is increasingly competitive and ready to take on the toughest challenges.
