History Made, Indonesia Futsal National Team Challenges Iran in 2026 AFC Futsal Cup Final

Indonesia men's national Futsal team secured a spot in the final of the 2026 AFC Futsal Asian Cup. In the semifinal, Garuda defeated Asian giants Japan 5-3 after extra time at Indonesia Arena on Thursday evening, February 5, 2026.

Indonesia's five goals were scored by Samuel Eko, Ardiansyah Nur, Firman Ardiansyah, Reza Gunawan, and Dewa Rizki.

Indonesia took the initiative from the very first minute. Relentless pressure from Israr Megantara and Firman Ardiansyah forced Japan to defend deeper.

This dominance finally paid off in the 12th minute when Samuel Eko breached Japan's goal. The goal was reviewed by VAR due to a suspected foul on Tabuchi, but referee Fahad Badir upheld the decision. Indonesia led 1-0.

In the 23rd minute, a misjudgment by Takehiro Motoishi inside the circle resulted in an own goal. Indonesia extended the lead to 2-0, Putting Japan under increasing pressure.

Under the bar, Indonesia's goalkeeper Habiebie thwarted several Japanese chances. Indonesia even came close to widening the gap in the 26th minute, but Brian Ick's powerful shot still hit the post.

Japan slowly fought back. Motoishi's low shot in the 31st minute deflected off Habiebie's foot before going into his own net. Japan reduced the deficit to 1-2.

Four minutes later, Japan captain Kazuya Shimizu equalized the score at 2-2.

However, Indonesia once again showed their character. An accurate pass from Samuel Eko in the 38th minute was finished off by Firman Ardiansyah with a powerful shot. Indonesia regained the lead 3-2.

Japan responded with a power play strategy, which led to a penalty after the ball touched Mochammad Iqbal's hand.

Shimizu successfully converted the penalty in the 39th minute, and the 3-3 scoreline held until the end of normal time.

In extra time, Indonesia played more calmly and effectively. A misplaced pass by a Japanese player in the 44th minute was capitalized on by Reza Gunawan to score. The score became 4-3 for Indonesia.

Three minutes later, Dewa Rizki sealed Indonesia's 5-3 victory with a long-range shot.

Japan had one last chance through a penalty in the 49th minute after Habiebie fouled Motoishi. However, Shimizu's penalty kick sailed over the bar.

Pressure came until the final seconds, but Indonesia defended with discipline. The final whistle blew, the 5-3 score stood, and history was made.

With this result, the Indonesia Futsal National Team advances to the final of the 2026 AFC Futsal Asian Cup. In the final, Indonesia will face Iran, who earlier eliminated Iraq 4-2.