‘High hopes’ as Indonesian women get a football league, again

Indonesia's women's football league, dormant for seven years due to Covid-19 and financial struggles, is set to return this Sunday after seven years. Zahra Naqiyyah, a 22-year-old football enthusiast, expressed optimism about the future of women's football in the country, believing that proper management could make Indonesia a powerhouse in Asia.

Despite the league's one-season run in 2019, there will be six clubs participating in a five-year trial period, with a budget of 24 billion rupiah (US$1.3 million) allocated by the Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI) to restart the league and pay salaries. However, the path to success may be challenging, as many players have left the sport due to the lack of a league and limited opportunities.

Even with the growing interest in the sport, Indonesia's women's team has never been to the World Cup and failed to qualify for the Asian Cup. Nevertheless, Azra Zifa Kayla, a 22-year-old player, remains committed to her passion for football, balancing her practice with her teaching job, as she believes that education is crucial for her future.