Jordan Cancels Indonesia Friendly as Rising Middle East Security Fears Disrupt Football Plans

News Date: November 6, 2026

Jordan has cancelled its upcoming international friendly against Indonesia following security concerns in the Middle East, adding uncertainty to the teams' preparations for major international football competitions.

The match was scheduled to take place in Amman on November 13. The cancellation was requested by the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI), which expressed concerns about the regional security situation and its possible impact on players and team officials.

The decision comes at a difficult time for international football, as several national teams are reviewing travel arrangements and match preparations amid growing instability in the region.

Why Was the Jordan vs Indonesia Match Cancelled?

An official from the Indonesian Football Association told Reuters that the decision was primarily based on security considerations.

The official explained that the situation in the Middle East was concerning and that the association did not want the uncertainty to affect the psychological well-being of players and team members.

After discussions with the national team's coach and the federation's leadership, PSSI decided that cancelling the fixture was the most appropriate option.

The Jordanian Football Association subsequently confirmed that Indonesia had apologised for being unable to fulfil the scheduled match.

Jordan Confirms Friendly Against Australia Will Go Ahead

Despite the cancellation, Jordan has confirmed that its other international friendly against Australia remains scheduled.

The match is expected to take place on November 17 at Amman International Stadium.

The Jordanian Football Association stated that the fixture would proceed without any changes to its schedule.

However, the regional security situation has also raised questions about Australia's planned trip to the Middle East.

Reports have suggested that some Australian players have expressed concerns about travelling to Jordan, although Football Australia has said it is monitoring developments and assessing the risks.

Middle East Security Situation Raises Concerns

The cancellation comes amid increased security concerns across parts of the Middle East.

Recent incidents, including violence in the wider region and security-related attacks, have contributed to uncertainty surrounding international travel.

Jordan has also experienced security incidents, including a recent attack in Amman that killed one security officer and injured another.

Australian authorities have advised their citizens to reconsider the need to travel to Jordan because of the unpredictable security situation and terrorism concerns.

These developments have made sporting organisations increasingly cautious about arranging international fixtures in the region.

Asian Cup Preparations Face Further Uncertainty

The cancelled friendly was originally part of preparations for the upcoming Asian Cup.

Jordan, Indonesia and Australia had planned international matches during the November window to improve their readiness for the competition.

However, the Asian Cup has also been postponed following security concerns surrounding Saudi Arabia, the tournament's host nation.

The competition has been moved to December 2027, adding another challenge to the international football calendar.

The postponement means national teams must reconsider their preparation schedules and identify suitable opportunities to maintain match fitness.

Could Indonesia Arrange Another International Friendly?

The Indonesian Football Association may explore the possibility of arranging another international match during the November FIFA window.

However, finding a suitable opponent at short notice could prove difficult because many national teams have already confirmed their international schedules.

The limited time available also makes organising travel, accommodation and match arrangements more complicated.

For now, Indonesia's immediate priority is to ensure that players remain prepared while avoiding unnecessary security risks.

What Happens Next?

Jordan is expected to continue its preparations for the scheduled match against Australia, while Indonesia will need to consider alternative plans for the international break.

Football authorities will continue monitoring regional developments before making further decisions about upcoming fixtures.

The situation demonstrates how security concerns can influence international sporting events, even when teams have already completed their preparations.

Conclusion

The cancellation of the Jordan-Indonesia friendly highlights the growing impact of Middle East security concerns on international football.

Although the decision creates a setback for both teams' preparation plans, player safety remains a priority for football authorities.

With Jordan's match against Australia still scheduled for November 17, attention will now turn to whether the remaining international fixtures can proceed safely.

Source: Reuters, Jordan Football Association and Indonesia's Football Association reporting, November 6, 2026.