To Jokowi, Erick Thohir Says Maarten Paes Comes from Kediri

Jakarta, Todaysgist.com – There was an interesting moment when the third round of Group C match of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers between Indonesia and Australia ended, Tuesday (10/9/2024). That moment was when PSSI General Chairman Erick Thohir said that goalkeeper Maarten Paes came from Kediri, East Java. Erick said that to President Jokowi.

“He is from Kediri, sir,” said Erick Thohir to Jokowi regarding Maarten Paes.

Maarten Paes is a naturalized goalkeeper. He was born and raised in the Netherlands. So why did Erick Thohir call Paes from Kediri? It is not without reason that Erick Thohir called Paes from Kediri. Because, Paes’ grandmother was born in Kediri.

Maarten Paes’ performance in the last two matches, namely against Saudi Arabia and Australia, was very brilliant. Like a wall for the Indonesian National Team, Paes saved the goal many times in the third round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Jokowi also praised the 26-year-old goalkeeper.