EN.MUHAMMADIYAH.OR.ID, JAKARTA – Indonesia is celebrating after its national football team won the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 title. After a 2-2 draw with Thailand through 120 minutes, Indonesia prevailed 4-2 on penalties in the final at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium in Senayan, Jakarta, on Monday (5/10).
The victory also brought pride to the Muhammadiyah community. One of Indonesia’s national team players, Rizky Ridho Ramadhani, is a student at Muhammadiyah University of Surabaya (Umsura).
Ridho entered the match in the second half in the 60th minute, replacing Luke Vickery. His presence in defense provided fresh energy as Indonesia sought to recover from its deficit against Thailand.
Ridho made an important contribution near the end of regulation time. The Indonesian defender delivered a cross that created a loose ball in front of Thailand’s goal. Elkan Baggott then converted the chance to make it 2-2.
The score remained unchanged through the extra time, forcing Indonesia and Thailand to settle the title through a penalty shootout. Indonesia held its nerve and won 4-2 to secure the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026.
Balancing Football and Education
The achievement was praised by Mundakir, Rector of Umsura. He said he was proud that Ridho had not only contributed to Indonesia’s national team success but also represented Muhammadiyah, particularly Umsura, on the international football stage.
“We are certainly very proud, Rizky Ridho is not only representing Indonesia, but also Umsura. This achievement shows that students can excel in sports while continuing to fulfill their responsibilities as university students,” Mundakir said Tuesday (6/10).
He said Ridho’s achievement was even more meaningful because, despite his demanding career as a professional footballer and Indonesian national team player, he has remained committed to completing his education.
“He is currently in his final semester and completing his undergraduate thesis. This proves that achievement and education can go hand in hand with commitment, discipline, and support from one’s environment,” he said.
Mundakir acknowledged that being a professional athlete while completing a university degree is not easy. He hopes Ridho’s achievement will inspire Umsura students to continue developing their potential and pursuing excellence without neglecting their education.
“We want our students not only to become champions on the field, but also to have a strong academic foundation for the future,” Mundakir concluded. (Bhisma)
