Indonesia limits spectators at the 2026 AFC U23 Championship qualifiers

Concerned about security issues due to protests, Indonesia has decided to limit the maximum number of spectators allowed into stadiums to watch matches in the Asian U23 qualifiers.

PSSI Secretary General Yunus Nusi (second from left) checks security at Gelora Delta Sidoarjo Stadium - Photo: PSSI

The Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) has just decided to limit the number of spectators to a maximum of 15,000 people allowed into Gelora Delta Sidoarjo Stadium (Sidoarjo, Indonesia) to watch matches within the framework of the 2026 AFC U23 Championship qualifiers.

The decision was made by PSSI Secretary General Yunus Nusi after inspecting the 19,000-seat Gelora Delta Sidoarjo Stadium. He said the limit was imposed in accordance with the security clearance granted.

"We have inspected the entire stadium, everything is 100% ready for the 2026 AFC U23 qualifiers. Security has also been prepared. Fans are allowed to enter the stadium in numbers of 15,000 people," CNN Indonesia quoted Mr. Yunus as saying.

There had been concerns that the matches might have to be played behind closed doors due to the unstable security situation in the country. However, after consideration, PSSI received permission from the police to allow spectators into the stadium.

PSSI also works closely with fan clubs to ensure matches run smoothly and safely.

Group J of the 2026 AFC U23 Championship qualifiers includes host Indonesia, South Korea, Laos and Macau. The first round of matches will begin tomorrow (September 3) with Macau facing South Korea, followed by Indonesia U23 and Laos U23.

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THANH DINH

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/indonesia-gioi-han-khan-gia-den-san-tai-vong-loai-u23-chau-a-2026-20250902225200584.htm