AFC’s response to the controversial referee on Bahrain vs Indonesia

Jakarta, CNN Indonesia —

AFC Secretary General (Sekjen) Datuk Seri Windsor John gave a response to the complaint Indonesian national team regarding the leadership of the referee from Oman, Ahmed Al Kaf against Bahrain, Thursday (10/10).

Referee Ahmed Al Kaf was in the spotlight after his controversial decision while officiating the Bahrain vs Indonesia match in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers at the Bahrain National Stadium, Thursday (10/10).

One of the controversial decisions of the referee Ahmed Al Kaf was to continue the game even though the injury time at the end of the second half was longer than six minutes. This decision affected the outcome of the game as Bahrain was able to score a goal back in the 90th + 9th minute which made the game end 2-2.

The Indonesian national team, which is dissatisfied with the decision of the referee Ahmed Al Kaf, has sent an official letter of complaint to the AFC. This problem then received a response from AFC General Secretary Windsor John.

“We need PSSI to clarify what they are complaining about. Whether it is performance, time management, or other specific problems. We have heard several reports, but the complaints must be detailed,” said Windsor, quoted by Media Malaysia New Straits Times (NST) on Saturday (12/10)..

However, Windsor said that the referee’s report would be investigated, including the reasons for the extra minutes.

“VAR monitors the referee’s decisions, and they have to justify them [jika ada keluhan].” said Windsor.

“Although match officials do not comment publicly on their performances, they must provide detailed reports to FIFA,” Windsor said.

In addition, Windsor called on countries in the ASEAN Football Association (AFF) region to produce quality coaches.

“We need more quality negotiators from this region. Currently, Nazmi Nasaruddin from Malaysia is one of the few who stand out,” said Windsor.

[Gambas:Video CNN]

(rrr)