Ivar Jenner Downplays Saudi Arabia’s “Dirty Tactics”

Author: Luthfie Febrianto
November 20, 2024

Ivar Jenner dalam laga 8 Besar Piala Asia U-23 2024 antara Indonesia vs Korea Selatan di Stadion Abdullah bin Khalifa, Doha, Qatar (26/4/2024). (source: @ivarjnr)

SEAToday.com, Jakarta - On Wednesday, (11/20/2024), Indonesian midfielder Ivar Jenner commented on Saudi Arabia’s “dirty tactics” during their match in Jakarta.

"You know, things like wasting time, yellow cards, red cards, these can happen," he said after Indonesia’s 2-0 victory at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, as cited by Antara.

The match, marked by frequent fouls and time-wasting from Saudi players, drew criticism from fans and the Uzbek referee Rustam Rutfullin faced chants of "mafia." Despite the distractions, Indonesia held firm and secured a crucial win in the World Cup qualifiers.

Ivar himself received a yellow card in the 89th minute for arguing with the referee. "That was a bit stupid; I was too aggressive towards the ref," the 20-year-old midfielder admitted candidly.

The win elevated Indonesia to third in Group C with six points from six matches, reigniting their qualification hopes. Ivar stressed the need for at least three wins in their remaining four games to secure a World Cup spot.

"Great victory, and I’m happy to play again," said Ivar. "We must push forward in the next matches; winning three of them can take us to the World Cup."

Writer: Fariz Ahmad Luthfi