REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA -- President-elect and Menhan Prabowo Subianto engaged in a conversation with PSSI General Chairman and Minister of SOE Erick Thohir at IKN, Friday (13/8/2024). The two talked after the last cabinet meeting at Istana Garuda IKN led by President Joko Widodo (Jokowi).

The two talks were witnessed by Minister of Investment/Head of BKPM Rosan Perkasa Roeslani and Menkumham Supratman Andi Agtas. The conversation was recorded on the Tiktok @Tumgrd account, which focused on Prabowo's official agenda and personal activities.

Both Prabowo and Erick discussed the Indonesian national team, which for the time being carved out positive results. The Indonesian national team earned two points in the third qualifying round of the 2026 World Cup, after holding Saudi Arabia and Australia to a draw.

Erick also explained that the Garuda team next month will play away matches against Bahrain and China. “This is us to Bahrain and this China sir, if we can win, we can win, God willing,” Erick told Prabowo.

Prabowo, who was holding Erick's hand, also hit back. “We are going to Bahrain with China,” Prabowo said, who then caught Menparekraf Sandiaga Salahuddin Uno approaching him. “God willing, we can win,” Erick said in response to Prabowo's reply.

Later, Erick explained that the Indonesian national team had shown good progress. The Indonesian national team, which is strengthened by descent players, is able to withstand its two opponents who are ranked far behind. “Because Australia ranks 24th, Saudi Arabia ranks 56th,” Erick said.

Prabowo answered briefly. “We are 133,” said the founder of Garudayaksa Football Academy, chiding Erick's explanation.

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