TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - International Federation of Football Association (FIFA) has officially announced Indonesia as the host of World Cup U-20 in 2021. The announcement was conveyed by FIFA President Gianni Infantino during a council meeting in Shanghai, China, Thursday, October 24.

Indonesia won the bid, beating out two rivals Brazil and Peru. “Congratulations, Indonesia,” said Infantino as quoted from PSSI official website.

Indonesian Soccer Association (PSSI) secretary-general Tisha Desria expressed her contentment. “Alhamdulillah, our hard works paid off. Our presentation was well-received by FIFA. PSSI thanks President Joko Widodo who fully supports PSSI and appreciate related ministries and regional heads who are committed to helping PSSI in realizing the dream to be a host in the 2021 World Cup,” Tisha said.

President Joko Widodo or Jokowi also conveyed his lauds through his Instagram account. He said that ten stadiums had been set to accommodate the football match.

“Good news comes from FIFA Council Meeting held in Shanghai, China, that Indonesia is chosen to host the World Cup U20 in 2021,” said the President on his official Instagram account @jokowi, Thursday, October 24.

The ten stadiums are Gelora Bung Karno (Jakarta), Pakansari (Bogor), Manahan (Solo), I Wayan Dipta (Bali), Mandala Krida (Yogyakarta), Jakabaring (Palembang), Wibawa Mukti (Cikarang), Patriot (Bekasi), Jalak Harupat (Bandung), and Gelora Bung Tomo (Surabaya).

NURDIN SALEH | ANTARA