TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Indonesian national team goalkeeper Emil Audero explained his reason for always wearing a genuine bracelet from Lombok, saying it ties him to his hometown. "Yes, this is from Lombok, my island. I truly feel the connection between me and Indonesia. Of course, I was born here," Emil told reporters during the national team's first training at the Madya Stadium Gelora Bung Karno on Monday, June 2, 2025.
He said the bracelet is also a symbol of his love for his birthplace, Mataram in Lombok, and it adds to his motivation ahead of his debut with the national team against China in the ninth match of the 2026 World Cup qualification third round Group C at the Main Stadium of Gelora Bung Karno, Jakarta, this Thursday at 8:45 PM local time.
Emil has a huge chance to make his debut with the Garuda because the main goalkeeper Maarten Paes is unable to play due to accumulating two yellow cards. However, Emil has to compete with Ernando Ari, Nadeo Argawinata, and Reza Arya.
"I can't wait to represent my country. I hope everything goes well. But, of course, I know that all of you, all the fans and supporters in the stadium, also at home, will support us. So, this is the best thing a player can have and feel," he said.
The match against China will be Emil's second home game after the match against Bahrain, during which he was a substitute player.
The Indonesian National Team is in fourth place in the standings with nine points, three points ahead of Bahrain and China in fifth and sixth positions. Indonesia is trailing one point behind Saudi Arabia in third place, four points behind Australia in second place, and 11 points behind Japan in first place.
Emil Audero Ready for Debut
Emil Audero said he doesn't feel nervous at all before his debut in the Indonesian national team. "It's pure joy. I prepare for the match as usual. I focus on training, and all my friends have had very good training sessions," said Emil.
The 28-year-old goalkeeper, born in Mataram, West Nusa Tenggara, is included in the 28-squad of the Indonesian national team who have been in training in Bali since last Monday.
The goalkeeper, who has played 15 times with Palermo in Serie B, sees a lot of progress in the Indonesian national team, including the chemistry within the team. "Of course, we have seen progress. If we compare it to the last time in March, of course, we don't have much time. Many new players, and me included," he said.
"The coach as well, this is his first time. I think yesterday in Bali, we had the opportunity to train and get to know each other well. Of course, time has helped us to get more information about our teammates," said the goalkeeper.
Emil Audero's Message to the Fans
Emil Audero has a special message for the fans of the Indonesian National Team ahead of the match against China. "So, I just want to say thank you. And, of course, keep pushing and supporting us, because you can be like our 12th player on the field," he said.
The match against China will be Emil's second home game after he came to Jakarta for the match against Bahrain in March. "I only came here once, to Jakarta. But, the last time I saw and felt what it means for the Indonesian people to support this team. And, of course, it's something huge," he said.
"Besides, for us, the players are very proud of it. The amazing atmosphere, the extraordinary feeling we have during the match," Emil Audero added.
Editor's Choice: Indonesia vs China: Maarten Paes Suspended, Emil Audero Poised for Debut
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