Erick Thohir Praises The National Team's Game Despite Losing To Vietnam

Indonesian national team player Arkhan Fikri took action in the third match of the ASEAN Cup 2024 against Vietnam at the Viet Tri Stadium (ANTARA/HO-PSSI)

PSSI General Chair Erick Thohir assessed that the national team's game was quite good despite being beaten 0-1 by Vietnam in the 2024 AFF Cup Group B match at Phu Tho Provincial Stadium, Vietnam, Sunday, December 15, 2024.

According to Erick, the national team game, which is dominated by young players against Vietnam, which is dominated by senior players, shows strong calm and mentality.

"I think the value of our young national team's game is good against Vietnam, where the players are more senior and experienced. Unfortunately, they conceded in the last half of the second half and the goal smelled a bit of luck," Erick said in a written statement in Jakarta, as quoted by Antara.

Erick assessed that 3-5-2 is a formation that is suitable for the pattern of the game of the team and makes the control of the field very lively.

Indonesia still has a chance to qualify for the semifinals because after playing three matches, Garuda remains in second place in Group B with four points or two points behind the Philippines and Laos. On the same day the Philippines and Laos drew 1-1.

Erick really hopes that the group stage closing match against the Philippines at home, Shin Tae-yong's men can get three points.

"In the last match against the Philippines, we have to be maximal and get full points," concluded Erick.