AFF U-19 2026 Semi-Final: Mathew Baker Could Become An Additional Weapon for Garuda Muda When Facing Australia

Indonesia U-19 may receive additional squad strength ahead of their 2026 AFF U-19 Cup semi-final match against Australia. Garuda Muda head coach Nova Arianto has opened the possibility of fielding Mathew Baker, who just joined the youth squad after appearing for the Indonesian senior national team.

Mathew Baker arrived in Medan on Wednesday, immediately joining the Indonesia U-19 squad who are finalising preparations for the high-stakes fixture against Australia at North Sumatra Main Stadium on the evening of Thursday 11 June.

While the likelihood of Baker playing is high, Arianto confirmed that a final call will only be made once the coaching team complete a full physical assessment of the 17-year-old player.

"Mathew Baker only arrived this afternoon. We will first observe his condition," stated Nova Arianto.

The former Persib Bandung player explained this caution is required as Baker had just completed duty with the Indonesia National Team for an international friendly match against Mozambique on 9 June.

The coaching staff will not take unnecessary risks regarding the fitness of a player who has just completed cross-country Travel and competed at senior international level.

"That said, there is a very strong possibility we will field him. But I will check his condition first," he added.

Baker's arrival is positive news for Indonesia U-19. His senior national team experience is expected to bring additional on-pitch quality and confidence boost for Garuda Muda ahead of facing one of the strongest opponents in this tournament.

Australia progressed to the semi-final as Group C winners, while Indonesia advanced as undefeated Group A champions after recording three wins from three group stage matches. This fixture is predicted to be tightly contested, with both sides holding comparable squad depth and technical quality.

Alongside the update on Baker, Arianto also confirmed that the rest of his squad is in excellent overall condition.

"All players are ready to compete. Reno Salampessy, who was forced off with Injury during the Vietnam match, has also recovered and is available for selection," he stated.

Despite entering the fixture with optimism, Arianto has continued to remind his squad to maintain strict match discipline. Over the last two days, Indonesia's training sessions have focused heavily on tactical structure and discipline, which have been identified as key factors to overcome Australia.

The 46 year old head coach stated he hopes all preparation work will translate properly on the pitch, to carry Indonesia through to the tournament final.

This semi-final also represents a significant personal test for Nova Arianto. Across the two previous occasions he has faced the Young Socceroos while managing Indonesia youth squads, he is yet to secure a victory.