U-23 national team qualified for the semifinals after a draw against Malaysia-Indonesia’s latest viral

Viralterkini.id, Jakarta-Indonesian U-23 national team successfully stepped into the semifinals of the 2025 AFF U-23 Cup after playing a goalless draw against Malaysia. The crucial match took place at the Bung Karno Main Stadium (SUGBK), Monday (7/21/2025).

The Garuda Muda squad only requires a draw to secure the top position of Group A standings. They managed to run the strategy by playing patiently and carefully since the beginning of the fight.

Malaysia appeared more defensive and relied on a quick counterattack. Conversely, Indonesia controls the ball more but minimal dangerous opportunities in the first round.

The violation immediately colored the beginning of the fight, when Ziad Basheer received a yellow card in the 6th minute. He violated Robi Darwis who tried to pass the Malaysian midfield.

Indonesia’s first opportunity came through Hannan in the 16th minute. His hard kick from outside the penalty box can still be secured by Malaysian goalkeeper, Sharani.

Hannan received a yellow card in the 32nd minute because he strongly protested the referee’s decision. Three minutes later, Shapri from Malaysia also received a yellow card after dropping Jens Raven.

The 39th minute was Toni Firmansyah’s turn to be rewarded with a yellow card after breaking Yuslan. Glasses score closes the first half even though the tension is quite high in the field.

Entering the second half, coach Gerald Vanenburg immediately made a change of players. Alfharezzi was pulled out and replaced by Achmad Maulana.

Indonesia appeared more aggressive in the second half and immediately locked the opponent’s defense. However, Malaysia’s back line still appears solid and disciplined.

Goalkeeper Cahya Supriadi made an important rescue from Yuslan’s free kick in the 53rd minute. Five minutes later, it was Jens Raven’s turn to almost scored but was thwarted by Sharani.

Malaysia responded to four players gradually. Toni Firmansyah who was injured was also pulled out and replaced by Dominic Dion.

Jens Raven was replaced by Hokky Caraka in the 73rd minute. Although the two teams buy and sell attacks, none of the opportunities were successfully converted into goals.

The match ended with a score of 0-0 and ensured Indonesia as the top of Group A with 7 points. The Philippines followed in second place with 6 points, while Malaysia failed to qualify with 4 points.

Brunei Darussalam became a caretaker after not collecting a single point from three matches. Indonesia was officially the first representative of Group A who advanced to the semifinals. (ma)

The moment of the Indonesian U-23 national team successfully stepped into the semifinals of the AFF U-23 2025 Cup