Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. Kevin Diks has officially become an Indonesian citizen, adding strength to Indonesia’s national football team ahead of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers, as announced by  the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) Chairman Erick Thohir on Saturday (9/10/2024)

Diks, a defender for FC Copenhagen, took the oath of citizenship at the Indonesian Embassy in Copenhagen, Denmark, on Friday, according to antaranews.ocm.

Erick noted that Diks, known for his solid performance in European leagues, will be a valuable addition to Indonesia's defense lineup in the upcoming qualifiers against Japan and Saudi Arabia.

"Kevin is a strong, experienced defender who will help strengthen our backline as we face crucial matches ahead," he said.

Diks joins Estella Raquel Loupattij and Noa Johanna Christina Cornelia Leatomu, who were also granted citizenship to bolster Indonesia's women’s national team. Erick added that Diks is finalizing his identification and federation transfer process to officially represent Indonesia.

The national team, currently ranked fifth in Group C, will face Japan on 15 Nov 2024  and Saudi Arabia on 19 Nov 2024 in critical matches for their World Cup qualifying campaign.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)