Marselino Ferdinan's Ambition To Reach The 2024 U-23 Asian Cup Semifinals

JAKARTA - Marselino Ferdinand became the Man of the Match in the Indonesia U-23 vs Jordan U-23 match at the Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium, Sunday, April 21, 2024.

The 19-year-old midfielder scored two goals in Garuda Muda's 4-1 win. The two goals were born from penalty executions and beautiful flicks after receiving Witan Sulaeman's assist.

Marselino's role in Indonesia U-23 is very important. He became the main choice in starting line-up Shin Tae-yong.

In fact, the KMSK Debze player has entered the senior Indonesian national team and performed regularly. He has packed 23 appearances in the senior team.

Marselino is also one of the actors who brought the Indonesian national team to make history for the first time to qualify for the knockout round in the 2023 Asian Cup.

Now, he is looking at a new target. After struggling with TIMnas Indonesia U-23 to the knockout round, he wants to take the team to the semifinals for a ticket opportunity to the 2024 Paris Olympics.

"Of course I am very happy that we are making a new history. This is the first time we have participated in this tournament. This is a good sign for the future of Indonesian football. I hope we can write a new story (in the next round)," Marselino said on the AFC official website.

Indonesia U-23 is a debutant team in the U-23 Asian Cup. Their first appearance immediately penetrated the quarter-finals.

Marselino revealed that believing and carrying out the coach's instructions is the main factor that makes Garuda Muda's appearance impressive.

"Against Jordan the U-23 was a tough game, but we played very well. I am proud of my team. We followed the tactical instructions given by the coach and we did very well," said Marselino again.

Indonesia U-23 will meet Group B winners in the quarter-finals of the 2024 U-23 Asian Cup, April 25, 2024, between South Korea and Japan. The two teams will clash to fight for the top of the standings on April 22, 2024.