Collapse of Indonesia's possibility to leave Asian football

Amid rapid rumors spreading on social media about Indonesia considering exiting the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) to join the “East Asian Confederation” (EAC) initiated by Japan and South Korea, AFC responded firmly, demanding PSSI promptly clarify its official stance.

According to information circulated by an Iraqi TV channel, Japan and South Korea are reportedly contemplating withdrawing from AFC due to dissatisfaction with the organization of the World Cup qualifiers and AFC Champions League.

The channel also claimed that Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand are on the list of countries “invited” to join the new alliance named East Asian Confederation (EAC). This rumor immediately stirred the Indonesian public, especially amid fans’ disappointment after the national team was eliminated early from the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

Under mounting pressure, PSSI General Secretary Yunus Nusi had to publicly deny the rumors entirely: “This information is fabricated. PSSI has never planned to leave AFC, but it is unfortunate that this rumor caused us to be questioned at an international conference. Fans should stay rational and not support something that isn’t true.”

Insider sources revealed that AFC sent a letter requesting PSSI to clarify after many Asian member federations repeatedly questioned whether Indonesia truly “collaborated” with Japan and South Korea. “AFC closely monitors social media. They clearly expressed dissatisfaction because the rumor spread too fast, damaging Indonesia football’s image,” Mr. Yunus added.

According to him, this issue originated from Southeast Asian fans’ frustration, believing that AFC favors West Asia after awarding hosting rights for two World Cup qualifying groups to Saudi Arabia and Qatar — both teams later qualified. “Some have exploited this sentiment to exaggerate the rumors. But Indonesia remains part of AFC and will continue to cooperate closely to develop regional football,” the PSSI General Secretary emphasized.

Not only PSSI, but the Japan Football Association (JFA) also quickly denied all related information. An anonymous JFA official told Football Tribe: “There is no plan to leave AFC. These are baseless rumors that do not reflect our position.”

Later, AFC representatives issued an official statement stressing that all members must maintain “unity and integrity” in communications, while warning of strict actions against those spreading false information that harms the organization’s image.

Currently, PSSI is trying to control domestic media and reassure fans with a clear message: “Indonesia will not leave AFC. Our goal is to develop professional football within Asia, not to chase after non-existent alliances.”

This incident serves not only as a warning about the risk of fake news spreading in football but also reflects the sensitive mindset of Asian countries regarding changes in AFC’s power structure. With PSSI’s firm statement and AFC’s strong reaction, it is certain that Indonesia will remain a part of Asian football, at least in the near future.

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