Ivar Jenner Optimistic That Indonesia Can Escape From The 2023 Asian Cup Group Phase

Indonesia U-23 National Team Coach Shin Tae-yong (left) and Indonesian national team U-23 player Ivar Jenner (right). (Intermediate Doc)

JAKARTA - Footballer Ivar Jenner is optimistic that the Indonesian national team will be able to get out of the 2023 Asian Cup group stage even though they have to face tough opponents in Group D.

The Utrecht-born midfielder, the Netherlands, said that although Indonesia was in the same group as Vietnam, Iraq, and Japan, coach Shin Tae-yong's squad was able to advance to the knockout stages.

"I think it's a very difficult pool, but it feels like it can still get out of the group stage and that's possible," said Ivar when met on the sidelines of a training session at Al Egla 4 Square, Lusail, Saturday evening Qatar time as reported by Antara.

Ivar also agreed with coach Shin Tae-yong's target of requiring the Garuda Squad to win or at worst is a draw. According to Ivar, the directive is still realistic despite occupying the toughest group.

Through the results of trials and intensive training with all players, Ivar felt a positive development in the national team. The Indonesian national team has increased the intensity of training since a few days before the match against Iraq next week.

"We've also practiced a lot after the previous three (trials) games, such as ball posesion, pressure on the pitch. So we've trained enough and are ready to compete," said Ivar.

Personally, Ivar is also grateful to be able to take part in training without injury. He did not want to repeat the unfavorable conditions when the national team had to face Iraq in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers which took place last November.

Pertandingan tersebut harus berakhir dengan kekalahan bagi Indonesia 1-5, dan turut menjadi kekecewaan bagi Ivar yang tak bisa membela timnya.

"At that time I was injured and I couldn't play. I think at that time the team was not in the best condition. But I think we can perform better in the last two days. I think we can win, so just look," concluded Ivar.

The Indonesia vs Iraq match on Monday (15/1) is the opening match for both teams to win three points. If it ends in a draw, then Indonesia and Iraq will get one point each.

Apart from Indonesia vs Iraq, the other Group D residents, namely Japan and Vietnam, will play matches on Sunday.