Indonesia gave up this opportunity because it refused to play in Israel in the name of solidarity for Palestine on the instruction of President Soekarno. Indonesia’s request to face Israel on neutral turf was also rejected by FIFA. Indonesia had to bury its World Cup dream.
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In badminton, Indonesia also rejected Israeli player Misha Zil from playing in the 2015 World Championships. Zilberman’s visa was held back for an extended period of time, although in the end the athlete was able to play under tight security. (rr)