Amazing Matthew Baker Hijacked By Australia, PSSI Soon Membagari

Matthew Baker (second from the right) is included in the Australian U-17 squad (Instagram/@mat_baker9).

JAKARTA - Matthew Baker has been widely discussed. His name is on the list of Australian squad U-17 on a trial tour against Solomon Islands and Vanuatu U-17.

Coach Brad Maloney included Baker on a list of 24 players to compete on August 15 and 18, 2024 which was announced through the Australian national team's official X account, @FootballAus.

PSSI immediately responded to the issue of Baker choosing Australia over Indonesia. Through PSSI Executive Committee Member Arya Sinulingga, the federation confirmed that Baker would remain with the Garuda Squad.

"He will continue to join our TC (Indonesia U-16), on August 1, yes, in Bali. In accordance with our invitation."

"So, earlier we, PSSI, had spoken with their families. They are still committed to us (Indonesia)," said Arya Sinulingga.

Baker had previously played for the U-16 Indonesian national team in the 2024 AFF U-16 Cup in early July 2024. He even played and scored one assist when Indonesia U-16 lost 3-5 to Australia U-16 at the event.

Meanwhile, the inclusion of Baker's name into the Australian U-17 squad cannot be separated from the role of coach Brad Maloney.

He is an Australian U-16 coach who appeared in the 2024 AFF U-16 Cup. Maloney knew Baker's ability when his troops met Indonesia U-16.