Khalid Tawalbeh
Doha
Taking part in the U23 Asian Cup 2024 in Qatar, the Indonesian national team, known as the Garuda Team, were received with high enthusiasm from both fans and officials alike, with high hopes that the team would not only make their mark on the field but also bring pride and honour to their country on this esteemed international stage. Touching down in Doha on April 10, the Garuda Team was met with a warm reception, with hundreds of supporters lining the airport and hotel to welcome their arrival.
Ambassador of Indonesia to Qatar HE Ridwan Hassan was present at the Hamad International Airport to extend his warm welcome to the team. Adding to the festivities, the Embassy of Indonesia hosted a gracious welcoming dinner at a local hotel in Qatar.
During the gathering, Ambassador Ridwan Hassan shared words of appreciation and pride for the Garuda Team’s achievements, particularly noting their historic advancement to the round of 16 in the 2023 Asian Cup. This marked a significant milestone for Indonesian football, a sentiment echoed by Ambassador Hassan who emphasised the team’s role as ambassadors for the nation.
Ali Murtado, head of Socio-Cultural Cooperation Division at the Indonesian Embassy, echoed this sentiment, expressing the overwhelming support from Indonesian citizens in Qatar.
Murtado highlighted the anticipated attendance of thousands of Indonesian supporters at the stadium, demonstrating the nation’s unwavering backing for their team. In the U23 Asian Cup tournament, Indonesia finds itself placed in Group A alongside hosts Qatar, Australia and Jordan. The Garuda Team kicked off their campaign on April 15 with a match against Qatar.
