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)

JAKARTA - PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir assessed that the national team played quite well even though they were defeated 0-1 by Vietnam in the Group B match of the 2024 AFF Cup at Phu Tho Provincial Stadium, Vietnam, Sunday, December 15, 2024.

According to Erick, the national team's game, which is dominated by young players when facing Vietnam, which is dominated by senior players, shows calmness and a strong mentality.

“I think our young national team has played well against Vietnam, whose players are more senior and experienced. Unfortunately, we conceded in the latter half of the second half and it was a bit of a lucky goal,” Erick said in a written statement in Jakarta, as quoted by Antara.

Erick assessed that 3-5-2 is a formation that is already suitable for the team's pattern of play and makes control of the midfield very lively.

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

Erick is very hopeful that in the closing match of the group phase against the Philippines at home, Shin Tae-yong's men can win three points.

“In the last match against the Philippines, we must maximize and achieve full points,” concluded Erick.