Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta.  Indonesia's national football team is being guarded by 30 security personnel, including 20 police officers, as they prepare for the World Cup 2026 qualifiers against Australia on Tuesday. 

Team manager Senior Superintendent Sumardji explained on Sunday (8/9/2024) that this was in response to the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) Chairman Erick Thohir's directive.

“The security will be with the players until the match concludes and will end when they return to their countries on September 11-12,” he said, as quoted by antaranews.com

The increased security follows an incident in August when striker Dimas Drajad’s bag was stolen during practice. The measures also aim to protect players' health by minimizing direct contact with fans who may carry illnesses.

Indonesia, currently fourth in Group C of the Asia World Cup qualifiers, will face Australia after a 1-1 draw with Saudi Arabia.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)