He said that the President's affection for the players, coaches, and officials was evident in his initiative to host the gathering at home rather than at the Presidential Palace.
"Mr. President treated the team like family, recognizing their struggle for our country. He appreciated their efforts," Thohir told the media in the courtyard of Prabowo's residence after attending the event on Friday.
Thohir described the atmosphere as warm and friendly, with several players, including Marselino Ferdinan, singing in front of the president.
At the same location, head coach Patrick Kluivert said it was an honor to be invited to the president's home for the luncheon.
He also expressed gratitude over Indonesia's crucial 1–0 win over China in the ninth match of Group C in the Asian zone of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, held at Jakarta's Gelora Bung Karno Stadium on Thursday.
Team captain Jay Noah Idzes said he enjoyed the luncheon, which he viewed as the president's way of celebrating the team's recent victory. He added that the singing session during the gathering lasted quite a while.
Earlier, President Prabowo watched the Indonesia-China match live at the stadium and went down to the field afterward to greet and congratulate the winning team.
With the victory, Indonesia is now fourth in Group C standings with 12 points, trailing Japan, Australia, and Saudi Arabia. The win not only earned Indonesia three points, but also secured it a spot in the fourth round of the qualifiers.
The Garuda Squad will take on Japan in the final game, which will be held in Osaka on June 10, 2025.
Related news: Prabowo urges Garuda Squad's best against Japan
Related news: Kluivert names 27 players for Indonesia's World Cup qualifiers
Translator: Genta T, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Primayanti
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