There Are Many Problems Regarding The Indonesian National Team Ahead Of The 2022 AFF Cup, Ilija Spasojevic Is Still Pede

Indonesian national team striker, Ilija Spasojevic. (Photo: Twitter/@PSSI)

JAKARTA - Ilija Spasojevic remains confident in the strength of the Indonesian national team in the 2022 AFF Cup despite minimal preparations due to the league competition which has been on hiatus for two months.

Not to mention there are mainstay players who cannot be included. Sandy Walsh and Elkan Baggott were absent because they remained at his club.

Meanwhile, Dimas Drajad had to be parked due to injury.

In addition, the Garuda Squad did not undergo a trial process during preparation. However, Spaso assessed that the training camp since November 28 was deemed sufficient for the Garuda squad.

"I think we can't argue when the tournament hasn't started yet. We have been training for a long time. We have improved physical and tactical. So, we can't argue and 100 percent have to be ready," Spaso told reporters.

Indonesia is in Group A with Thailand, the Philippines, Cambodia, and Brunei Darussalam. Shin Tae-yong's troops will undergo two away matches and home during the group phase.

The Garuda squad campaign started their home game against Cambodia this Friday. Then successively against Brunei in the away match, Thailand at home, and finally playing away again against the Philippines.

"I think we have a very strong team. All players are very qualified, both young players, as well as experienced players," said the Bali United player.

I think we are very compact. Everyone works very hard, in the afternoon, every day. So, I am optimistic and respectful of this team," he continued.

Spaso has been defending Indonesia since 2017, but has not appeared in official competitions. For this year, this year's AFF event will be the first tournament for the Montenegro-blooded player.

"I'm happy to be called again, a second chance. Yesterday Shin Tae Yong also said that I have changed my mindset, improved physically and mentally. So, I hope to meet the expectations of coaches and all Indonesian people," he said.

Indonesia will look for the first title in the AFF Cup this year. Previously, Indonesia had become runner-up six times, the last in the 2020 edition after losing to Thailand in the final of two legs.