Mission to Retain Gold, Indra Sjafri Names 18 SEA Games 2025 Squad
Source: Antara Photo/Fauzan)
Indonesian U-22 national team coach, Indra Sjafri, is starting to see a more solid team framework ahead of the 2025 SEA Games in Thailand. Following the 2-2 draw against Mali U-22 at Pakansari Stadium, Bogor, on Tuesday night, Indra confirmed that most of the squad for the tournament is already formed.
"And Alhamdulillah, it's almost certain we've validated about 18 players. Perhaps just five players we'll look at in the remaining days," said Indra in the post-match press conference.
This statement marks an important evaluation from Indonesia's last four friendly matches: two against India and two against Mali. The results were two draws and two losses. Although the results weren't optimal, Indra assessed that the team's progress continues to trend positively.
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"We thank you, these friendlies were very beneficial. Then, around the 21st-22nd, we will give the clubs a chance for the players to play. So we have a commitment with the coaches that if a player is indeed playing (for their club)," he stated.
Evaluation Continues, Mistakes Still a Concern
Indra didn't hide that his team is still prone to losing focus, leading to conceding goals. This also happened during the 0-3 loss in the first meeting against Mali.
"After the first match we reflected and discussed with the players, with the coaching staff. There were indeed several things that needed fixing. Errors occurred, and today too, there were mistakes that ultimately led to us conceding," Indra explained.
Despite this, he sees positive development in terms of determination and execution.
2025 SEA Games Group C Schedule
In the 2025 SEA Games, Indonesia is grouped in Group C with Singapore, the Philippines, and Myanmar.
Garuda Muda will begin their campaign against Singapore on December 5, followed by an important duel against the Philippines on December 8, and conclude with a decisive match against Myanmar on December 12.
Indonesia's mission is to defend the gold medal won at the 2023 edition in Cambodia.
With 18 names already secured, Indra now only needs to decide on the final five slots before departing for Thailand.(Antara)
