Digimagaz.com – The Indonesian U-23 national team achieved a crucial victory as they faced off against Turkmenistan U-23 with a score of 2-0 in the ongoing qualification rounds for the Asian U-23 Cup in Group K. This victory has secured a spot for the Garuda Muda in the Asian U-23 Cup set to be held in Qatar in 2024.
The match, held at the Manahan Solo Stadium on Tuesday evening, also drew the attention of President Joko Widodo (Jokowi), the First Lady Iriana Jokowi, their youngest son, Kaesang Pangarep, and their grandson, Jan Ethes. Also in attendance was the Chairman of the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI), Erick Thohir.
The first half kicked off with high intensity from both teams. Turkmenistan U-23 displayed an aggressive approach right from the start, although they resorted to diving attempts to gain an edge over the Garuda Muda players.
In the 10th minute, Hokky Caraka came close to scoring a goal after receiving a pass from Pratama Arhan, but the goal was disallowed by the referee due to an offside call.
However, the breakthrough came in the 41st minute when Ivar Jenner netted a goal that set the Manahan Solo Stadium roaring. The goal was the result of an assist from Arkhan Fikir, as Ivar unleashed a shot from outside the penalty box that beat Turkmenistan’s goalkeeper, Ahallyyev Rustem, making the score 1-0 in favor of Indonesia.
Entering the second half, Turkmenistan intensified their attacks, but their efforts were yet to pose a threat to the Indonesian goal. Referee Kim Dae-yong issued the first yellow card of the match in the 53rd minute to Turkmenistan’s player, Mamiyev Begench, following a foul that resulted in a free-kick for Indonesia.
In the 59th minute, Turkmenistan’s Umarov Salim also received a yellow card for a tackle from behind on Marselino. Despite Turkmenistan’s players often resorting to diving tactics, the Garuda Muda remained effective in their offensive play.
It wasn’t until the 90th minute, during additional time, that Indonesia secured their second goal when Pratama Arhan found the back of the net.
With this victory, the Indonesian U-23 national team has successfully qualified for the 2024 Asian U-23 Cup in Qatar.
Source : Pelitadigital.com