Buffon Affirms Indonesia U-23 Is Not Afraid To Be Blasphemed, Makes Criticism As A Motivation

Alfharezzi Buffon (right) it's okay to accept criticism in order to perform better for Indonesia U-23 (VOI/Ulfa Gusti).

JAKARTA - Indonesia U-23 National Team Player (Timnas), Alfharezzi Buffon, responded casually to various criticisms and blasphemys that Garuda Muda players often received in the midst of public pressure. According to him, criticism is commonplace in the world of football and can be an evaluation material to perform better in the future.

"For blasphemy and criticism, it doesn't matter to me. That's normal," Buffon said in a press conference ahead of the 2025 AFF U-23 Cup semifinal match on Thursday, July 24, 2025.

The player who defended Persita Tangerang realized that poor performance on the field could certainly lead to a negative response from supporters. However, he did not consider it a burden, but as an impetus to develop.

"If I play badly, it's not good enough, it's okay, just criticism. It doesn't matter to me, it will be a spirit in the future," he said.

Buffon also emphasized that no player wants to perform badly on purpose. Therefore, he accepted all forms of criticism gracefully and made it a trigger to continue to give the best for the U-23 Indonesian national team.

"For example, if I'm not optimal, it's okay to blaspheme, it's okay to be criticized, it's okay. It will make me even more enthusiastic and my friends will definitely support me. So, it doesn't matter to me," he said.

Meanwhile, ahead of the 2025 AFF U-23 Cup semifinal against Thailand U-23, Buffon ensured that all Garuda Muda players were physically and mentally ready.

"For tomorrow's match, all the players are ready. From physical and mental, friends are in good condition. So, I think we are ready to face Thailand," he said.

The match between Indonesia U-23 vs Thailand U-23 will take place at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (GBK), Jakarta, on Friday, July 25, 202, at 20.00 WIB. This duel is important to determine the ticket to qualify for the 2025 AFF U-23 Cup final.