Confidence Still Enlivens The Indonesian National Team Even Though Faced With A Hard Examination For The 2022 AFF Cup Final

Indonesian national team Fachruddin Wahyudi (left). (Photo via ANTARA PHOTO/AKBAR NUGROHO GUMAY)

JAKARTA - The Indonesian national team failed to take advantage of the advantage of being the host when they met Vietnam in the first leg of the 2022 AFF Cup semifinals. The Garuda squad only picked up a goalless draw when the two teams met at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, Jakarta, Friday, January 6.

This result makes the Indonesian national team obliged to win in the second match of the AFF Cup semifinal which will be held at the My Dinh Stadium, Hanoi, Monday, January 9. If they draw, the Garuda Squad can qualify if they score.

Asnawi Mangkualam and his friends can play series 1-1, 2-2 and so on because the away goal rules are again applied in this AFF Cup.

Even though it was a bit difficult because he competed at the opponent's headquarters, the Indonesian national team remained optimistic. This was conveyed by the team captain, Fachruddin Aryanto, after the first leg match.

"The match against Vietnam is not easy. But all the players have worked hard and carried out the strategy of coach Shin. There is still a second leg to fight to qualify for the final," said Fachruddin.

Coach Shin Tae-yong also showed confidence. He still believes his team still has a chance to go to the AFF Cup final.

He also knows the question, namely preparing the team very well.

"We are clearly preparing for the second match. What is clear is the results who will talk. Just look at the stadium later," said the South Korean coach.