A frustrating run!
A supporter of Indonesia's beleaguered national side was so frustrated by their lacklustre performance against Oman that he ran on to the pitch, dribbled the ball into the opposing box and had a shot on goal.
A supporter of Indonesia's beleaguered national side was so frustrated by their lacklustre performance against Oman that he ran on to the pitch, dribbled the ball into the opposing box and had a shot on goal.
The fan, Hendri Mulyadi, 25, later apologised although many online postings cheered his antics. “I apologise to the football fans across Indonesia for what I've done,” Mulyadi was quoted as telling Kompas.com after the match on Wednesday which Oman won 2-1.
He picked up the ball deep in Oman's half late in the game and showed a neat turn of pace to take it into the box but the goalkeeper blocked his effort.
A policeman, who had visibly struggled to keep up with the bare-footed fan, eventually caught up, put him in a headlock and dragged him away.
Indonesia's loss in Jakarta's national stadium in front of more than 40,000 spectators stopped the home side from reaching the final round of the Asian Cup for the first time since 1992.
“I was very disappointed with the Indonesian national team. They never win. It's either lose or draw,” Mulyadi said. Online postings next to footage on YouTube rallied behind Mulyadi: “Wah, he could be a future striker for Indonesia,” said one. “This guy is a hero!!!” said another.
Beckham praised on Milan return
MILAN: David Beckham was hailed for his willingness to help the team after shining on his AC Milan return in a 5-2 Serie A win over Genoa on Wednesday.
Injuries to Alexandre Pato and Clarence Seedorf meant second-placed Milan had to start on-loan Beckham further forward than usual on the right of a front three.
“He had a week where we tried him in every role (in training),” coach Leonardo said.
“I think that is the synthesis of what he is all about. He has an absolute willingness to help, extraordinary quality and tactical intelligence.”
The LA Galaxy midfielder is on-loan at Milan for a second five-month loan spell in a bid to clinch a place in England's World Cup place during the U.S. close season. He produced some superb crosses and worked hard defensively in front of England coach Fabio Capello.