The Indonesian U-17 National Team has successfully established itself as the champion of Group C of the 2025 U-17 Asian Cup after defeating Afghanistan 2-0 on Thursday night (10/4/2025) local time.
Competing at the Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium, Jeddah, Indonesia has not been able to score a goal in the first half. The team led by Nova Arianto is often said to have wasted golden opportunities.
Indonesia was only able to score a goal in injury time in the second half through the actions of Fadly Alberto and Muhammad Zahaby Gholy.
The opening goal for Indonesia’s lead was scored by Alberto from close range after utilizing a measured pass from Muhammad Aldyansyah Taher in the 90+4 minute.
Two minutes later, Muhammad Zahaby Gholy managed to double Indonesia’s lead to 2-0. Gholy’s shot utilizing Aldyansyah Taher’s sweet pass could not be blocked by Hamid Amiri.
Coach Nova Arianto decided to rotate players in this match. The reason is, Indonesia has been confirmed to qualify for the quarter-finals of the U-17 Asian Cup as well as the final round of the 2025 U-17 World Cup.
However, I Putu Apriawan et al. continued to appear determined in order to aim for victory. However, Afghanistan, which has been confirmed to be eliminated from the tournament, also did not want to give up easily.
This victory confirmed Indonesia as the winner of Group C with nine points. Before conquering Afghanistan, Indonesia had first defeated South Korea and Yemen.
Meanwhile, South Korea is confirmed to be in second place with six points. After losing to Indonesia, South Korea rose by defeating Afghanistan and Yemen.
Thus, Indonesia and South Korea are entitled to advance to the quarter-finals of the 2025 U-17 Asian Cup. This result also ensures that both teams qualify for the final round of the upcoming 2025 U-17 World Cup which will be held in Qatar.
Next, Indonesia will face the runner-up team of Group D which is occupied by North Korea, Tajikistan, Oman, and Iran. Meanwhile, South Korea will later have to face the winner of Group D.
Image source: goal.com
