Regarding The 2024 AFF U-19 Cup Champion Target, Indra Sjafri Answers Realistic

Indra Sjafri, head coach of Indonesia U-19 (doc. PSSI).

JAKARTA - Indonesia U-19 is preparing to start its journey in the 2024 AFF U-19 Cup. Garuda Muda appeared in another tournament called AFF Championship U-19 with the target of winning.

This target is an achievement that Indonesia U-19 has made in the 2013 edition. At that time, Garuda Muda first won under the leadership of Indra Sjafri.

When asked about the target in a press conference session on July 16, 2024, Indra Sjafri answered realisticly.

"I will try to meet the target. However, don't lead me into God."

"I am only human and will try my best about meeting the target," he said.

As is known, the 2024 AFF U-19 Cup is not actually Indonesia U-19's main goal. The age group tournament in ASEAN is only a target between looking at the 2025 U-20 Asian Cup Qualifiers which will be held in September 2024.

Indonesia U-19 will start its journey in Group A of the 2024 AFF U-19 Cup on July 17, 2024, by facing the Philippines at the Gelora Bung Tomo Stadium, Surabaya.

Meanwhile, the Philippines coach, Josep Maria Ferre, is very wary of Indonesia U-19. Moreover, the first match is very important for both teams.

Not to mention, Josep Maria Ferre admits his team's preparation is fairly short, only three months.

"They have good players. I am very surprised by the good work of the U-19 Indonesian team."

"Moreover, they are preparing for this tournament well. I think our team is only preparing for three months."

"However, we continue to develop for this tournament. For this tournament, we think Indonesia U-19 team is strong, they have a good opportunity," said Josep.

After facing the Philippines, Garuda Muda was then scheduled to meet Cambodia (20 July 2024) and Timor Leste (23 July 2024).