KUALA LUMPUR: The Asian Football Confederation (AFC) is still awaiting an official complaint from the Indonesian FA (PSSI) regarding the controversial decisions made by Omani referee Ahmed Abu Bakar Al Kaf during their World Cup qualifier against Bahrain on Thursday in Riffa.
The match ended in a 2-2 draw after a stoppage-time equaliser by Bahrain's Mohamed Marhoon (90 + 9).
Indonesian fans and officials were outraged, claiming the referee extended stoppage time by three extra minutes beyond the initial six allocated, allowing Bahrain to rescue a point.
A furious Indonesia coach Shin Tae Yong accused the referee of being biased, and PSSI claimed it had filed a complaint with AFC.
Indonesian fans also took to social media to criticise the referee.
However, AFC general secretary Datuk Seri Windsor John confirmed the confederation has not received a formal complaint from PSSI.
"We need PSSI to clarify what they are complaining about — whether it's the performance, time management or other specific issues. We've heard various reports, but the complaint must be detailed," said Windsor.
However, Windsor added that the referee's report, including the rationale for adding extra minutes, would be reviewed.
"VAR monitors all decisions by referees, and they must justify them (if there are complaints).
"While match officials do not publicly comment on their performances, they are required to provide a detailed report to Fifa," said Windsor.
He also called for better referee training across Asia, particularly in the Asean region.
"We need more quality referees from this region. Right now, Malaysia's Nazmi Nasaruddin is among the few notable ones," Windsor added.
Tensions escalated further on Thursday when Indonesia team manager Sumardji was red-carded, and defender Syahne Pattynama nearly clashed with Bahrain players. The match officials had to be escorted off the pitch by security.
The draw was Indonesia's third in the World Cup Asian third-round qualifiers. In previous matches, Indonesia drew with Saudi Arabia and Australia and will face China next on Tuesday.