Dramatic, U23 national team finally escaped to the final against Vietnam – Indonesia’s latest viral

Viralterkini.id, Jakarta-Indonesian U-23 national team managed to advance to the 2025 AFF U-23 Cup final after defeating Thailand. The semifinal match which was held at the Bung Karno Main Stadium on Friday (7/25/2025) night, was fierce and full of drama.

Although Indonesia appeared dominant in ball possession, both teams both had a number of golden opportunities. Dony Tri Pamungkas, Jens Raven, and Rahmat Arjuna actively threatened Thailand’s defense.

Thailand began to press back in the second half and opened a wider space. The Indonesian goal finally conceded in the 60th minute by Yotsakon Burapha.

The goal occurred due to Indonesia’s midfield error that failed to secure the ball. The response was quickly shown by Garuda Muda, but kicking Rayhan Hannan had not met the target.

Thailand again got a dangerous opportunity through Siraphop Wandee. But Ardiansyah managed to block shots swiftly.

Gerald Vanenburg made changes to the strategy by including Ferrarri, Scheunemann, and Buffon. Indonesia began to rely more on crossing from the wing side.

Garuda Muda’s struggle paid off in the 84th minute. Jens Raven’s header from Rayhan’s corner made the score 1-1.

Thailand almost scored in additional rounds when Ardiansyah came out of the penalty box. But Buffon swiftly swept the ball before the opponent can shoot.

Entering the second half Extra time, Thailand played more aggressively. Indonesia often makes its own mistakes and almost conceded.

Ardiansyah appeared heroic in the 116th minute with two consecutive rescue. The score remained 1-1 until the match continued to the penalty shootout.

In the penalty shootout, Kadek Alel opened the lead after Thailand’s first execution failed. After a 4-4 draw, the determination continues until the sixth and seventh executor.

Ardiansyah became a hero by dismissing Yotsakon Burapha’s shot. Alfharezzie Buffon then ensured victory with the closing goal that broke into the Thai goal.

This victory led Indonesia to the final of the AFF U-23 Cup with pride. Dramatic struggle and mental toughness are the key to the victory of Garuda Muda. (ma)

Indonesian vs Thailand semifinal moment