Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) will send a formal protest to FIFA regarding referee Ahmed Al Kaf's officiating during the World Cup 2026 qualifying match between Bahrain and Indonesia on Thursday.

The match, held at Bahrain National Stadium in Riffa, ended in a 2-2 draw, with Indonesia initially leading 2-1 before Bahrain equalized in the 99th minute through Mohamed Marhoon. Al Kaf added six minutes of stoppage time, but the game continued until the 99th minute.

“We will send a protest letter,” said PSSI Executive Committee member Arya Sinulingga on Friday (11/10/2024). “We are very disappointed with the referee’s performance, particularly with the extended time that allowed Bahrain to score.”

Indonesia fell behind early in the match when Marhoon’s shot in the 15th minute hit the crossbar before crossing the goal line. However, Indonesia equalized in the first half through Ragnar Oratmangoen in the 45+3 minute and took the lead in the 73rd minute thanks to Rafael Struick.

Following this draw, Indonesia sits fifth in Group C with three points, one point behind Bahrain in fourth place. Indonesia's next match is against China on 15 October 2024

(mg/inp/pr/nm)