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Bobby Nasution praised for supporting youth football in North Sumatra
Sumardji, Chairman of the PSSI National Team Body (BTN), has praised North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution for his significant support of youth football development in Indonesia. Speaking at the Extraordinary Congress for the election of the PSSI North Sumatra Chairperson in Medan, Sumardji identified Nasution as the only governor showing such high levels of commitment to age-group football competitions.
This support is evidenced by North Sumatra hosting several international youth tournaments, including the 2025 Independence Cup, which served as a warm-up for the U-17 World Cup, and the AFF U-19 Cup in June 2026. Sumardji noted that while he has approached various governors across the country to host similar competitions, Nasution has been uniquely responsive.
Sumardji expressed hope that this collaboration between the regional government and PSSI will continue to benefit not only players but also referees, organizers, and local facilities, ultimately brightening the future of football in North Sumatra.