Indonesian U-17 National Team Beware Of The Drama Of U-17 Kuwait Players

JAKARTA - The U-17 Indonesian national team coach, Nova Arianto, asked his players to be aware of the drama that will appear when undergoing the 2025 U-17 Asian Cup Qualification against Kuwait U-17. He asked his players to remain calm and not be provoked.

The U-17 Indonesian national team will face Kuwait U-17 in the inaugural match of the 2025 U-17 Asian Cup Qualification, Wednesday, October 23, 2024, at 21.30 WIB, at the Mishref Stadium, Kuwait.

Ahead of the match, Nova highlighted the style of the Middle East team's game which often triggers dramas on the field and has the potential to interfere with the opponent's concentration.

Therefore, he advised his foster children to remain calm and focus on competing later.

"To anticipate against Kuwait is the same as what the senior national team has done, we also know the Middle East teams. We are wary of it because once again Kuwait is the host," Nova Arianto said in an official statement quoted Wednesday, October 23, 2024.

"I ask players to be more patient in controlling emotions because Middle Eastern players often make dramas on the pitch," he said again.

Nova also emphasized the importance of emotional control. As is known, the Middle East team often takes advantage of the situation on the ground to provoke the opponent's emotions.

Even so, Nova Arianto is optimistic that his foster children will be quite mature in dealing with this scenario.

"I believe players have learned from previous experiences, both in Indonesia U-17 and from observations of the senior Indonesian national team."

"Central Eastern players often do dramas, but we have to stay focused on our own game," said the coach.

Nova also hopes that his players can play calmly and not think too much about the pressure of the match.

"The important thing is, players must be more relaxed and not tense. Focus on the game plans and enjoy the game," said the 44-year-old tactician.

Meanwhile, in terms of fitness, Nova said that all players were in top condition even though there were several injured players during a training camp in Spain.

"The condition of the players is very fit. I am sure they are ready to give their best and carry out the plans that have been prepared," he said.

Nova Arianto brought 23 players, two of whom were diaspora players, namely Mathew Baker and Lucas Lee. Both are expected to contribute to the team.