REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA -- PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir said Indonesia's victory over China in the ninth match of the third round of 2026 World Cup qualifying Group C at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium in Jakarta on Thursday, with a 1-0 score was a blessing to the Indonesian nation's prayers.

Erick also said the presence of President Prabowo Subianto brings good luck to the team.

“Indeed, prayers from the Indonesian people and Mr. President expect victory, that is why he is present. Like I said, he brought hockey in two (Bahrain and China) times. Twice present two wins yes,” Erick told reporters after Thursday's game.

Ole Romeny's goal through the white dot gave Indonesia 12 points in fourth place in Group C, while also sealing a place in the fourth round of qualification after Saudi Arabia beat Bahrain 2-0 at the Bahrain National Stadium on the same day.

This situation was achieved after Indonesia's points were already unable to catch up with Bahrain and China, who collected six points or a six-point gap. With one match remaining, the difference is impossible to chase.

Despite sealing the fourth round, Indonesia can still finish in the top three after only a one-point gap with third-placed Saudi Arabia.

Indonesia will play Japan in its final match at Suita Stadium on Tuesday (10/6), while Saudi Arabia hosts Australia on Wednesday (11/6) early in the morning at King Abdullah Sport City.

If Indonesia wins and Saudi Arabia fails to get three points, the third place will be occupied by Garuda.

“It means we are 12 points and tonight there is still a Saudi match against Bahrain. We wait, don't be euphoric just yet. But if the result is a draw between Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, or the Saudi team wins, then we are in a safe position for fourth place,” Erick said before the result between Saudi Arabia and Bahrain ended with a victory for the Green Falcons.

“But if Saudi draw, we hope we are also last against Japan if we can take points then maybe we can rank third. So we focus on the play-offs,” he added.

In the fourth round, Indonesia is likely to meet Middle Eastern countries such as the United Arab Emirates and Qatar from Group A, Iraq and Oman from Group B.

When asked how Indonesia's chances of breaking through the 2026 World Cup, Erick was optimistic Indonesia would get tickets to the tournament, which was played in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

“That's why we are in September so we have trials with all the teams from there. Lebanon and Kuwait, that's the preparation,” he concluded.

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