Indonesia's Defender Says Threats Strengthened Resolve During ASEAN Cup Triumph

Speaking after Indonesia's dramatic penalty-shootout victory over Thailand in the final at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium in Central Jakarta on Monday, October 5, 2026, Justin revealed that some of the messages targeted his family while he was representing the national team.

“There is one thing I want to say. Throughout this tournament, there were people from countries such as Malaysia and Vietnam who said many things on social media. They sent a lot of death threats to my family,” he said, as quoted by Antara.

Rather than allowing the situation to affect his performances, the 23-year-old defender said it strengthened his determination to help Indonesia succeed in the tournament. “The only thing we could do was win and show them who the real king is. And I think we showed that today,” said the Fortuna Sittard player.

“I think those countries should stop talking now, because this is Indonesia,” he added. Justin's comments came after Indonesia secured the ASEAN Cup title in one of the tournament's most dramatic matches.

The final ended 2-2 after regulation time before Indonesia prevailed 4-2 in the penalty shootout. Indonesia appeared on course for victory when Dean James' free kick gave the hosts the lead in the 84th minute. The goal came after Thailand had been reduced to 10 players following the dismissal of Nicholas Mickelson, who received a second yellow card.

However, Thailand quickly responded. Despite being a man down, the visitors equalized three minutes later through Iklas Sanron, forcing the match into extra time. Thailand then took the lead in the 111th minute through Peeradol Chamratsamee, briefly silencing the home crowd. Indonesia responded four minutes later when Elkan Baggott scored the equalizer that ultimately sent the match to penalties.

The hosts held their nerve from the spot to claim a 4-2 shootout victory and secure the championship. Justin played a key role throughout Indonesia's successful campaign. He started all four of the team's matches during the tournament and contributed one goal and one assist, both of which came in Indonesia's 9-2 victory over Bangladesh in the group stage.

Since making his debut for Indonesia against Libya in January 2024, Justin has made 22 appearances and scored two international goals. The defender's remarks underscored the emotional intensity of Indonesia's title-winning run, which concluded with the national team lifting the FIFA ASEAN Cup trophy in front of its home supporters. ***