Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. Minister of Youth and Sports Dito Ariotedjo guaranteed that Indonesia will welcome Bahrain’s national team with international security standards for their World Cup qualifier in Jakarta on 25 March 2025.

Following concerns raised by Bahrain’s ambassador to Indonesia, Ahmed Abdullah Alharmasi Alhajeri, he said on Tuesday (11/3/2025) that all security protocols would meet Bahrain’s expectations.

The concerns stemmed from cyberattacks by Indonesian netizens after the first leg in October 2024, where controversial refereeing decisions led to a 2-2 draw. 

Referee Ahmed Al Kaf’s extended stoppage time allowed Bahrain to equalize, sparking outrage among Indonesian fans. As a result, the Bahrain Football Association’s official account and players became targets of online harassment

"Social media can be heated, but Indonesia remains warm and welcoming," said Minister Dito.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)