Piala Dunia U-17 2023: Sempat Unggul, Timnas Indonesia U-17 Diimbang Ecuador 1-1

Muhammad Kaatur, U-17 Indonesian striker (Photo: Doc.LOC WCU17/ NFL)

JAKARTA - The U-17 Indonesian national team had to settle for a 1-1 draw after being stuck by Ecuador's U-17. Had the lead first, the score then ended in a draw in the first matchday of Group A of the 2023 U-17 World Cup.

The matches between the Indonesian U-17 and Ecuador national teams were held at the Gelora Bung Tomo Stadium (GBT), Surabaya on Friday 10 November night WIB. The Milky Way's squad managed to score a goal first against Ecuador.

The goal of the Indonesian U-17 national team was scored by Arkhan Kaka in the 22nd minute. This sweet execution started from Riski Afrisal's stab on the left. Riski was able to penetrate the control of Ecuador's defenders and release a low pass.

Ecuador's goalkeeper, Crithian Loor tried to cut the ball that crossed in front of goal. But the ball that was touched by Loor actually led to Arkhan Kaka, who was standing in front of goal, without Arkhan's difficulty, directing it straight into the net.

However, the joy of the Indonesian U-17 national team lasted only six minutes. Because Ecuadorian striker Allen Obando was able to score the equalizer goal in the 28th minute.

Taking advantage of the Santiago Sanchez cross, Obando, who stood free in front of goal, greeted him with a header that immediately headed for the Garuda Squad goal.

After the equaliser's goal, the game continued to heat up until finally the referee blew the half-time whistle.

In the second half, Ecuador's U-17 continued to press for added advantages. Michael Bermudez's movement in the 53rd minute threatened the national team's goal but was blocked.

The match continued to be tough because both teams had ambitions to lock up the win in the first match. However, until the referee gave 90+16 extra time, there were no additional goals for both teams with a final score of 1-1.