Bima Sakti Reveals the Key to Indonesia's Victory Over the UAE in the U-17 Asian Cup Qualification

The coach of the Indonesian U-17 national team Bima Sakti (left) and his squad striker Arkhan Kaka (right). (Photo via ANTARA/Michael Siahaan)

JAKARTA - The Indonesian team won 3-2 over the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the continuation of the U-17 Asian Cup Qualification Group B, Wednesday, October 5, at the Pakansari Stadium, Cibinong, Bogor. This victory brought Indonesia to the top of the standings.

The Garuda Asia team has now collected six points, the same as the UAE. However, Indonesia is entitled to the top because it excels head to head.

Indonesia U-17 coach, Bima Sakti revealed the key to his team's victory. He said the players played focused so they could beat the strong teams in this group.

"We had conceded two goals when we were leading 2-0. However, the players remained confident and focused so that they won the game," said Bima Sakti in a press conference after the match, as quoted by Antara.

In this match, Indonesia won 2-0 first through goals from Muhammad Nabil Asyura (18') and Arkhan Kaka (30'). However, the UAE made it 2-2 through Waleed Mallalla (32') and Ghaith Abdalla (39').

Indonesia decided the victory through Arkhan Kaka's second goal which was created in 55.

"We want players to reduce mistakes, especially when defending and coordinating in the next match. Players must also suppress ego," said Bima.

While Arkhan Kaka assesses the party versus the UAE is a match with high intensity. However, they could not party long.

Next, Indonesia faces Palestine, Friday, October 7th. "The victory over the UAE will not be the last because our target is to qualify for the 2023 U-17 Asian Cup," said Arkhan.