Cambodian U-19 Coach Admits Indonesian U-19 Dead Ball Tactics Are Very Dangerous

JAKARTA - Cambodia U-19 must admit defeat to Indonesia U-19 in the second match of Group A of the 2024 AFF U-19 Cup at Gelora Bung Tomo Stadium, Surabaya, Saturday, July 20, 2024.

Cambodia U-19 lost 0-2 to Garuda Muda through goals from Kadek Arel (71') and Iqbal Gwijangge (86'). The two goals were created through a dead ball scheme, to be precise a corner kick.

Cambodian U-19 coach, Phea Sopheaktra, admitted that his team lost badly in a match against Indonesia U-19.

In fact, Cambodia U-19 has succeeded in frustrating Garuda Muda in dismantling its defenses through open play.

"We played well, but for dead balls (they) were very difficult to match, especially for those who were physically strong. Yes, for set pieces, we also tried to do a lot, but we lost many times," Phaa said after the match.

"That's why we lost, but I'm happy with my players," he said again.

However, Phea appreciated the children's play. His troops managed to apply instructions to strengthen the defense side.

This was done by Phea because Indonesia U-19 was fairly good in the attack organization. As a result, he changed the formation from the first match against Timor Leste U-19.

As is known, Cambodia U-19 played a 4-2-3-1 scheme when they lost 2-3 in the group's inaugural match. However, after seeing Garuda Muda's game which was so productive when they beat the Philippines U-19 6-0, Phaa changed the formation to 5-4-1 in the second match.

Phea has succeeded in reducing various U-19 Indonesia powers in terms of attack, both through counter-attack speeds and dangerous crosss from both wings.

"We are trying to face this strong team (Indonesia U-19). They are playing with a system that creates many chances."

"That's why we changed the system. Previously, we played 4-2-3-1 against Timor Leste U-19. Now we're playing 5-4-1. We're trying to block that cross," Phaa said.

However, Phea forgot that Indonesia U-19 still had weapons in the dead ball scheme. Muhammad Kafiatur's entry in the second half had a positive impact.

He made two assists for two U-19 Indonesian goals through his corner.

Apart from that, Cambodia U-19 has lost two defeats which make their chances of qualifying for the knockout stages run low.

However, Phea revealed that she was still proud of her troops. Her appearance in the 2024 AFF U-19 Cup gave her many good international experiences for the future career of Cambodian U-19 players.

"I am happy with the efforts of my players. They are not afraid and try to play as well as possible for up to 90 minutes," he said.

Cambodia U-19 still has one match left in Group A of the 2024 AFF U-19 Cup. They will face the U-19 Philippines on July 23, 2024.