Sensational Debut with the Indonesian National Team, Baker Heats Up the 2026 AFF Cup Top Scorer Competition

Mitchell Baker immediately captured all attention on his debut for the Indonesia National Team. The young Garuda striker scored a hat-trick as Indonesia crushed Cambodia 5-1. Baker's three-goal haul has intensified the race for the 2026 AFF Cup top scorer title.

Baker's goal count is level with Vietnam forward Nguyen Dinh Bac, who previously topped the scorer rankings after netting a hat-trick when Vietnam demolished Timor-Leste 7-0 in the opening Group A fixture.

Remarkably, Baker did not feature for the full 90 minutes. Head coach John Herdman substituted Baker in the 57th minute, just moments after he completed his hat-trick against Cambodia.

This decision benefits Indonesia, as it grants Baker extra recovery time. He is therefore expected to be in peak condition when Garuda face Timor-Leste for their second Group A match in Chonburi, Thailand on Friday 31 July.

Based on his display against Cambodia, Baker is the clear favourite to once again lead Indonesia's front line from kick-off. His pace, finishing quality and sharpness inside the penalty area have brought a whole new dimension to Garuda's attacking play.

While Baker and Dinh Bac currently sit at the top of the goalscoring charts, the battle for the top scorer award remains wide open. Multiple other players are hot on their heels with 2 goals apiece.

Paulo Josue (Malaysia), Ilhan Fandi (Singapore), Kakana Khamyok (Thailand) and Hendrio (Vietnam) are all set to mount serious pressure in the hunt for the 2026 AFF Cup Golden Boot.

If he can sustain this clinical finishing form, Mitchell Baker will not only hold strong prospects of carrying Indonesia deep into the tournament, but also end the competition as its highest goalscorer.

2026 AFF Cup Current Standings: Top Scorers

3 Goals
Mitchell Baker (Indonesia)
Nguyen Dinh Bac (Vietnam)

2 Goals
Paulo Josue (Malaysia)
Ilhan Fandi (Singapore)
Kakana Khamyok (Thailand)
Hendrio (Vietnam)