While PSSI has not yet announced the names of the players who will participate in the Southeast Asian sports event, coach Indra Sjafri earlier mentioned that he had selected 20 players.
"I'd like to say to those who have not been chosen that they have not been chosen not because they are bad, but because there is a limited quota. We can only bring 20 people," Amali said.
He further said that PSSI chairperson Erick Thohir is planning to meet the players on Friday (April 21, 2023).
The former minister of youth and sports also expressed optimism that the national team will bring home the football gold medal this time. Indonesia has failed to strike gold at the SEA Games for 32 years.
"I believe (that they can bag a gold medal) because coach Indra Sjafri convinced me," he said.
"Ever since this team was formed, I repeatedly asked coach Indra and coach Indra convinced me that Insya Allah (God willing), with the existing players, we hopefully can," he added.
The U-22 national team has undergone the final test to select players who will participate in the Cambodian SEA Games.
PSSI is planning to announce the names of the 20 players who have been chosen to strengthen the national team on Thursday. The U-22 national team will leave for Cambodia on April 24 or 25.
For the Cambodian SEA Games, Indonesia has been placed in Group A, which has relatively light competition.
Related news: Indonesia to send 599 athletes to 32nd SEA Games
Related news: Badminton team eyes four golds at SEA Games
Related news: Taekwondo team aiming for two golds at SEA Games
Translator: A Rauf Andar A, Fadhli Ruhman
Editor: Azis Kurmala
Copyright © ANTARA 2023
