KBRN, Jakarta: The world soccer governing body FIFA has approved the federation transfer of Emil Audero, Joey Pelupessy and Dean James under the auspices of the Indonesia Soccer Association (PSSI). PSSI has also received the Eligibility to Play for Representative Team letters for these three players.

The three players, therefore, are now eligible to strengthen the Indonesian National Team in the third round of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. In these qualifiers, Indonesia is scheduled to play two matches against Australia and Bahrain.

PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir expressed his gratitude that the three players' status is now eligible. He confirmed that they can immediately defend the Garuda Squad.

"Thank God that Emil, Dean and Joey have passed the federation transfer process and can be registered for the Indonesian National Team matches. They are ready to give their best for Indonesia, so they can perform on the world stage," Erick said in a statement in Jakarta on Thursday, March 13, 2025, as reported by rri.co.id.

Emil, Joey and Dean have taken the oath of citizenship at the Indonesian Embassy in Rome, Italy. The oath-taking ceremony took place on Monday, March 10, 2025, and now all three also have their respective Identity Cards (KTP).

Previously, Joey Pelupessy played for Lommel SK in Belgium, Dean James for Go Ahead Eagles in the Netherlands, and Emil Audero for the Italian club, Palermo FC.

Indonesia will face Australia on Thursday, March 20, 2025, in Sydney. Then, Indonesia will host Bahrain on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, Jakarta. ***