2026 ASEAN Futsal Finals: Indonesia Fearless Against Host Thailand

Indonesian Futsal National Team will challenge Thailand in the final of the ASEAN Futsal Championship 2026. The defending Champion Garuda Squad remains undaunted facing Thailand before home supporters at Nonthaburi Hall, Bangkok, Sunday, April 12.

Coach Hector Souto emphasized that his team feels no inferiority despite confronting the experienced hosts. 

Indonesia advanced to the final after a dramatic 3-2 semifinal victory over Vietnam, while Thailand eliminated Australia 4-3.

"Thailand are favorites—playing at home with players who've competed together for years. But we're here to play our game. We take pride in this team's identity of never feeling inferior before anyone," stated Souto on Friday.

Favorite status indeed belongs to Thailand, especially with key players like Muhammad Osamanmusa and six athletes who previously featured in the Futsal World Cup. 

However, Souto identifies another strength in the Indonesian squad: openness and meritocracy in Player Selection.

According to the Spanish coach, all players shining in domestic competitions have equal opportunities to join the national team, without barriers or labels.

"We don't recognize Indonesia A or B. This is Indonesia," Hector asserted.

This approach has proven effective in building squad depth. Many young Indonesian players have been forged in the competitive atmosphere of the Professional Futsal League (PFL), preparing them for high-pressure matches like the final.

Indonesia stands on the brink of history to defend the title won in the 2024 edition, where they successfully defeated Vietnam 2-0 in the final match. (Antara)