Indra Sjafri Praises Jens Raven, But Still Collects Promises

JAKARTA - The U-19 Indonesian national team coach, Indra Sjafri, was satisfied with his team's performance when appearing against the U-19 Philippines in the inaugural match of Group A of the 2024 AFF U-19 Cup.

The Garuda Muda squad secured a big 6-0 victory over the U-19 Philippines at the Gelora Bung Tomo Stadium, Surabaya, on Wednesday, July 17, 2024, WIB night.

Indra Sjafri praised his team, including Jens Raven, who contributed one goal.

The player who came off the bench scored the team's sixth goal in the 86th minute.

"Of course I am grateful, Jens Raven only played 15 minutes to score one goal," said Indra Sjafri in a press conference after the match, quoted on Thursday, July 18, 2024.

Despite being satisfied with Jens Raven's performance, Indra Sjafri will still collect the rest of the player's promise. The reason is, previously Ravens promised to score two goals if he got minutes to play.

"However, this afternoon (before the match) promised me if he was played, he would score two goals. Well, I still collect one goal," said the coach.

From a promising performance in this match, Indra Sjafri did not miss to correct Jens Raven's performance. He admits that this 18-year-old player still needs adaptation.

"We are quite satisfied, but Jens has just joined and I think it is necessary to adapt well with this team," he said.

After successfully winning big against the Philippines U-19 in the inaugural match, the U-19 Indonesian national team was not allowed to be happy.

There are still tough opponents to face. They will meet Cambodia U-19 in the second match on Saturday, July 20, 2024.