Indonesia All Star Draws Barcelona U-18 0-0 At IYC 2021, Coach Ilham: Tempo Is High But We Played Neatly

JAKARTA - Indonesia All Star U-20 managed to hold Barcelona U-18 to a draw when they met at the International Youth Championship (IYC) 202I tournament. The home team ended the match with the score 0-0 against Young Barcelona who on paper are more favored.

Appearing for the first time at the Jakarta International Stadium (JIS) on Wednesday, April 13 afternoon, the Indonesian All Star team has the advantage. Because, they certainly appear more confident with the support of their own supporters.

The pressure from Barcelona U-18 who tried to appear pressing since the early minutes was successfully suppressed by the home team. The strong defense even managed to keep Indonesia All Star's goal safe until the long whistle sounded.

Regarding the appearance of his team in this match, coach Ilham Romadhona took his hat off. He said the host was able to survive in the middle of a high-tempo game presented by the opposing team.

"The game was obviously going at a very high tempo, Barcelona kept attacking but we were also quite good, we played pretty well," said the coach quoted from Instagram @iycindonesia.

The coach also said that throughout the game his team tried to create opportunities through sharp attacks. But the resistance and defense of the young Blaugrana cannot be underestimated. Luckily, they were able to end the match without conceding a goal.

Reflecting on this match, Ilham said the team's performance was quite good and maximal. But he was not necessarily satisfied, because he still wanted the home squad to give a better appearance in the follow-up match.

"In the future, we will also not forget to give our best," hoped Ilham.

This draw makes Indonesia All-Star U-20 and Barcelona U-18 have the same point, namely one. The current top position is occupied by Atletico Madrid U-18 after a 5-0 win over Bali United U-18.

Indonesia All-Star is now preparing to face Bali United U-18 in the second matchday which will take place on Friday at the same venue. The kick-off will be at 15.00 p.m. EDT.