The Indonesian Women’s National Team is set to kick off their Garuda Championship Series 2026 campaign against Singapore. This highly anticipated opening fixture, scheduled for Wednesday, June 3, at 7:00 PM WIB, will unfold at Arcamanik Stadium in Bandung. However, a significant decision by the Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI) means the match will proceed without the roar of live spectators, a move that has drawn mixed reactions.
Remini Rumbewas, a key player for the Garuda Pertiwi squad, openly expressed her disappointment regarding the spectator ban. She lamented the absence of direct support from enthusiastic Indonesian fans, stating the team had eagerly hoped for a vibrant atmosphere within the stadium.
Despite this setback, Rumbewas emphasized the team’s unwavering spirit. “While this is indeed a PSSI decision to play without spectators, it absolutely does not diminish our fighting spirit for tomorrow’s match,” Remini declared during the pre-match press conference at Arcamanik Stadium on Tuesday, June 2. She further added, “Naturally, as the host team, our wish was to play in front of our supporters. But ultimately, this decision has been made, and we respect PSSI’s authority.”
Echoing Rumbewas’s sentiments, Satoru Mochizuki, the head coach of the Indonesian Women’s National Team, acknowledged the profound impact of playing behind closed doors. The Japanese tactician believes that the absence of a live audience inherently detracts from the complete international match experience.
“Undoubtedly, spectators play a crucial role in matches of this caliber; they are essential for creating a truly international football spectacle,” Mochizuki stated. Yet, he is also keen to extract a positive aspect from this unusual situation. The coach hopes that without the pressure of a live crowd, his players might perform with greater freedom and less apprehension.
Mochizuki elaborated on this tactical perspective: “Players often experience increased nervousness and anxiety when performing in front of a large crowd. Given the absence of spectators this time, we anticipate our players will be able to perform more uninhibitedly, free from external pressure.” He concluded with a resolute message, “We are committed to delivering our absolute best, regardless of the circumstances.”
The decision to close the stadium gates was previously confirmed by PSSI Bandung Media Officer Saputra to kumparanBOLANITA on Sunday, May 31. Providing further clarity, Vivin Cahyani, an Exco Member of PSSI, attributed the measure to limitations in security-supporting facilities at the venue.
Vivin Cahyani reiterated, “For both Women’s National Team matches, PSSI will not be opening ticket sales due to the existing security facility constraints.” However, she assured that Garuda Fans would still have ample opportunities to follow the action live. Supporters can tune into the broadcasts on Indosiar, Vidio.com, and FIFA+, ensuring they don’t miss a moment of the crucial Indonesia vs Singapore encounter.
Summary
The Indonesian Women’s National Team is set to face Singapore in the opening match of the 2026 Garuda Championship Series at Arcamanik Stadium, Bandung, on June 3rd. The match will be held behind closed doors due to security facility limitations at the venue, a decision made by PSSI to ensure all safety protocols are strictly maintained.
Despite the disappointment of playing without the presence of fans, player Remini Rumbewas and head coach Satoru Mochizuki remain fully committed to delivering their best performance. Coach Mochizuki hopes that the absence of a live crowd will actually help reduce pressure on the players, allowing them to compete more freely. For fans eager to support Garuda Pertiwi, the match will be broadcast live on Indosiar, Vidio.com, and FIFA+.