Inp.polri.go.id - Surabaya.  The Indonesia U-19 national team aims to win all three of its group stage matches against the Philippines, Cambodia, and Timor-Leste in the ASEAN U-19 Boys Championship (AFF U-19) held at Gelora Bung Tomo Stadium Surabaya in East Java.

“I’ve told the players we must be fully prepared and focused to secure points. With four countries in Group A and three matches to play, we need to win all three to advance directly, not just as one of the best third-placed teams,” said head coach Indra Sjafri on Tuesday (16/7/2024).

The coaching team has prepared strategies for the group stage, semifinals, and finals of the tournament, which features 12 countries, according to antaranews.com.

“We have plans for each stage of the tournament, from the group stage to the final,” Indra added.

Currently, the team is fit and ready for the first match against the Philippines. “No players are injured, and everyone is in top form,” he said.

Indra has studied the Philippines team through available video footage, though he admits to having limited information on their players due to scarce televised matches.

Despite this, Indra is optimistic about their chances. “Optimism is key, and without it, we would lack confidence,” he stated.

U-19 player Arkhan Kaka expressed excitement about facing the Philippines coach Josep Ferre, whom he knows from their time at Persis Solo.

“I’m happy to meet coach Coco again, but I will stay focused on the match,” Arkhan said.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)