Inp.polri.go.id - Banda Aceh. The Chairman of the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) Erick Thohir strongly condemned the assault against a referee during the XXI National Sports Week (PON) Aceh-North Sumatra 2024 men's football quarterfinal match between Aceh and Central Sulawesi at Dimurthala Stadium in Banda Aceh on Saturday (14/9/2024.

The match ended in chaos and the assault against the referee after controversial refereeing decisions, according to antaranews.com

The game’s referee, Eko Agus Sugih Harto, awarded two late penalties to Aceh, sparking outrage among Central Sulawesi players. The situation escalated when one of the players assaulted the referee, leaving him unconscious and needing to be taken to the hospital by ambulance.

PSSI has vowed to impose severe penalties on those involved, with Erick labeling the incident as "shameful." He promised a thorough investigation into both the refereeing decisions and the violent conduct of the players.

"This is criminal behavior and will face legal consequences. There will be no tolerance for actions that undermine fair play," Erick said, emphasizing that those found guilty could face lifetime bans.

Aceh advanced to the semifinals after Central Sulawesi withdrew from the match.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)