Indonesia can't sell tickets to Bahrain fans in World Cup qualifiers

Bahrain players celebrates Mohamed Marhoon's (number 8) opening goal during the 2-2 draw with Indonesia in the third round 2026 World Cup qualifiers on Oct. 10, 2024 at Bahrain National Stadium. Photo by Reuters

PSSI representative Marsal Masita confirmed that no Bahraini fans bought the tickets through official channels. According to regulations, the Bahrain Football Federation (BFA) had until March 17 to confirm their ticket purchases, but no response was received. As a result, PSSI decided to release the 3,000 tickets to Indonesian fans, who snapped them up within hours.

When asked if any Bahraini supporters might still attend the game, Masita was uncertain.

"We don't know. I only know that they did not buy tickets through the official channels that we provided," he told Antara.

Under 2026 World Cup qualification rules, the home team must allocate at least 8% of tickets to away fans. Fans are advised to purchase through their national federation, allowing organizers to arrange a designated seating area for safety. Hosts can also refuse entry to away fans who buy tickets in home sections to prevent potential clashes.

According to Indonesian newspaper Suara, the BFA may have advised fans against traveling to Jakarta due to tensions from the first-leg match.

The controversy stemmed from referee Ahmed Al Kaf's decision to extend stoppage time by nine minutes, allowing Bahrain to score a late equalizer and end the game 2-2. After the match, PSSI filed a complaint to FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) over the officiating, while Bahrain claimed their players received online threats from Indonesian fans.

Citing safety concerns, Bahrain even requested that the second leg be played on neutral ground, but FIFA and the AFC rejected the proposal.

Despite the tensions, PSSI has assured Bahrain of a safe and comfortable visit. Youth and Sports Minister Dito Ariotedjo emphasized that hosting Bahrain provides a golden opportunity for Indonesia to showcase its ability to organize world-class events.

Bahrain and Indonesia are locked in a tight battle for a World Cup qualification spot, with both sitting on six points, same as China and Saudi Arabia. Indonesia currently hold third place due to a better goal difference, followed by Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and China. Japan lead the group with 16 points, while Australia are second with seven points.

Before their crucial showdown on March 25, Bahrain will first travel to Japan, while Indonesia face a tough away match against Australia. Both matches will take place on March 20.