Indonesia makes history, eliminates Vietnam and advances to 2026 AFC Futsal Asian Cup semifinals.
Source: Antara Foto/Aspirilla Dwi Adha
Indonesia finally broke through the long-unbreachable barrier. Playing before their home crowd at Indonesia Arena, Jakarta, the Indonesian Futsal Team made history by advancing to the semifinals of the 2026 AFC Futsal Asian Cup after defeating Vietnam 3-2 in the Quarter-finals.
This victory marks Indonesia's best achievement throughout their participation in the AFC Futsal Asian Cup. Previously, the Red and White's journey had always ended in the quarter-finals, including in the 2022 edition in Kuwait. This time, a different Story was written, and history was made at home.
Indonesia started aggressively from the outset. The opening goal came quickly in the 4th minute when Wendy Brian Ick capitalized on Ardiansyah Nur's pass to rattle Vietnam's net. This early pressure immediately shifted the tempo of the match.
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Vietnam tried to respond through a shot by Nguyen Da Hai, but the quick reflexes of Indonesian Goalkeeper Ahmad Habibie kept the lead intact.
Indonesia's momentum continued in the 11th minute. Ardiansyah Nur finished off a pass from Rio Pangestu. Indonesia led 2-0.
Vietnam didn't stay idle. They nearly reduced the deficit through Vu Ngoc Anh, but the chance went off target.
Entering the second half, Vietnam increased their attacking intensity, forcing Indonesia to defend deeper.
The pressure paid off with a goal in the 25th minute. Nguyen Da Hai capitalized on a swift counter-attack to narrow the score to 1-2.
However, just one minute later, Reza Gunawan scored Indonesia's third goal, restoring the two-goal cushion and shifting momentum back.
Ahmad Habibie played a crucial role in keeping Indonesia on track for victory. The Indonesian team goalkeeper made two vital saves to deny shots from Chau Doan Phat.
Vietnam then took a risk by implementing a power play with five minutes remaining. The strategy briefly paid off. Nguyen Da Hai's second goal in the 36th minute changed the score to 2-3, heightening the tension in the arena.
But Indonesia held firm to secure the 3-2 scoreline until the final whistle blew.
This win sends Indonesia into the semifinals of the 2026 AFC Futsal Asian Cup. Japan will be Indonesia's opponent in the semifinal, to be held at Indonesia Arena, Jakarta, on Thursday at 7:00 PM Western Indonesian Time (WIB).
