U22 Indonesia called up several naturalized players such as Ivar Jenner, Rafael Struick, Mauro Zijlstra, Jens Raven, and Dion Markx, in preparation for the SEA Games. They were full of confidence as they hosted U22 Mali at home.
Before the match, Indonesian media even emphasized that a victory over U22 Mali would serve as a warning to U22 Vietnam and U22 Thailand ahead of the SEA Games.
However, things did not go as planned for U22 Indonesia. Against their African opponent, they revealed numerous weaknesses. U22 Mali’s powerful play style left U22 Indonesia unable to cope. The match concluded with a 3-0 victory for U22 Mali.
In this game, U22 Indonesia received an early shock. In just the 5th minute, Sekou Doucoure headed in a goal for U22 Mali from a corner kick. By the 31st minute, Wilson Samake showcased his superior strength, sprinting from his own half to U22 Indonesia’s penalty area and scoring.
In the second half, U22 Mali deliberately slowed down the pace of the game. They no longer attacked as relentlessly as in the first half. Nevertheless, the African team still managed to score a third goal through Moulaye Haidara in the 90+1 minute.
Clearly, after this heavy defeat, Coach Indra Sjafri’s squad understands their current standing and will draw valuable lessons before the SEA Games.
Meanwhile, U22 Thailand demonstrated their strength with a dominant 4-0 victory over U22 India. Sirapop Wandee opened the scoring for the Thai hosts with a left-footed shot into the near corner in the 32nd minute.
In the 42nd minute, Chinngen Phutanyong was fouled in the box, and the referee awarded U22 Thailand a penalty. Maneekorn successfully converted, extending the “War Elephants'” lead to 2-0.
Early in the second half, Maneekorn again earned a penalty for U22 Thailand. From the spot, Chaiyaphon Athon made it 3-0 for the home side. Finally, in the 62nd minute, Thanakrit Chotimueangpak sealed U22 Thailand’s 4-0 victory.
U22 Indonesia and U22 Mali Lineups:
U22 Indonesia: Cahya Supriadi; Frengky Missa, Kakang Rudianto, Kadek Arel, Dony Tri Pamungkas; Ananda Raehan, Ivar Jenner, Raka Cahyana; Mauro Zijlstra, Rafael Struick, Rahmat Arjuna.
U22 Mali: Bourama Kone; Isiaka Soukouna, Eden Gassama, Sekou Doucoure, Dan Sinate; Hamidou Makalou, Boubakar Dembaga, Moulaye Haidara, Aboubacar Sidibe; Pep Niama Sissoko, Wilson Samake.
