Ministry blames PSSI for woeful Bahrain defeat

Andi Malarangeng: Youth and Sports Minister. JP/R. Berto Wedhatama

Youth and Sports Minister Andi Mallarangeng looked reluctant to respond to reporters’ questions over the corruption surrounding his Democratic Party. While rushing to his car, Andi suddenly stopped after The Jakarta Post asked him about Indonesia’s humiliating 0-10 loss to Bahrain in Manama on Wednesday evening.

“Well, there you are. The result is because the PSSI [Indonesia Soccer Association] management keeps on fighting with each other. Last night’s result was because the parties concerned refuse to keep cool heads,” Andi said at the State Palace on Thursday.

His tone expressed the certainty that the prolonged internal dispute within the PSSI had been the most significant factor behind the national soccer team’s worst ever defeat.

Andi said the association should have put the interests of national soccer above its internal disputes.

“With two domestic leagues, the national team won’t be supported by the best players because some of them play in one of the leagues [which is not approved by the association],” Andi said.

The chaotic domestic soccer situation has resulted in the formation of two top-tier leagues: the Indonesian Super League (ISL) and the PSSI-approved Indonesian Premier League (IPL). The association has issued a regulation, citing that players who play in the ISL competition cannot join the national squad.

Andi cited reconciliation as a solution to solve the ongoing saga. “The PSSI should recognize the ISL, and vice versa,” he said.

“At the end of the year, we should hold a special competition between the winners of both leagues. I think that would be the best solution by far,” he said, “I hope last night’s result opens many people’s eyes and hearts.” (nvn/swd)