Bahrain FA urges fans to avoid disruptive behaviour after FIFA fine

TDT | Manama                                                      

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

Email: hussainm@newsobahrain.com

In light of a recent penalty imposed by FIFA, the Bahrain Football Association (BFA) has issued a stern request to its supporters ahead of the match against Indonesia.

The BFA was fined $4,400 due to fan misconduct during Bahrain’s 5-0 blowout to Japan, which included the use of laser pointers and whistles to distract players.

With the next two matches potentially defining Bahrain’s qualifying campaign, the FA is keen to ensure a positive atmosphere in the stands.

Crunch Time

As Bahrain prepares to host Indonesia at the National Stadium tonight, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

Indonesia enters the match with renewed confidence, following valuable draws against Saudi Arabia and Australia.

For Bahrain, there is little room for error, as anything less than a win could severely impact their chances of progressing. Having yet to find the back of the net in their last two matches—excluding the own goal that gifted them a win against Australia—Bahrain must capitalize on this home fixture.

The Fallout

The 5-0 defeat to Japan last month left Bahrain reeling—not just from the result but also from the repercussions of poor fan behavior.

Many supporters left the stadium early, disillusioned by the scoreline, while others resorted to using laser pointers and whistles, actions that have now drawn FIFA’s ire.

In the aftermath, Japan’s manager, Hajime Moriyasu, voiced his concerns, stating, “But I would like to see an end to the booing that happened during the national anthems at today’s game, and the attempts to obstruct my players, which could have done them physical damage”. He added, “The Bahrain team were able to compete in a very fair manner, and I would like the fans to do the same”.

The fine serves as a reminder that fan conduct is not only a matter of national pride but can also affect the team on and off the pitch.

Positive Fan Engagement

With the penalty fresh in mind, the BFA is urging supporters to channel their passion constructively.

They have asked fans to refrain from using disruptive tactics and instead focus on providing vocal support for the players throughout the 90 minutes. The Federation’s message is clear: the team needs the fans, but it needs them to be a source of motivation, not distraction.

Saudi Arabia Clash Looms Large

While the Indonesia match is the immediate focus, Bahrain can’t ignore what comes next—a highly anticipated meeting with Saudi Arabia just five days later in Riyadh.

A win over Indonesia would provide crucial momentum heading into the Saudi clash, where the team will need to be at full strength both physically and mentally.

Victory Requires Unity

The message from the Bahrain FA is unmistakable: the road to World Cup qualification is a collective effort. The players need to deliver on the field, but the fans also play a key role.

Avoiding distractions and showing unwavering support, regardless of the score, will be critical to the team’s success. With a passionate crowd behind them, Bahrain has the potential to take a huge step toward World Cup qualification tonight.