Indonesian football fans and sports media have expressed significant disappointment following the U23 national team’s premature exit from the U23 Asian Cup 2026 qualifiers. The president of the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI), Erick Thohir, has promptly called for a comprehensive review to address the team’s recent performance and strategy.
The decisive blow came on September 9 at Gelora Delta Stadium, where host nation Indonesia, competing in Group J, suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to South Korea in their final group match. This loss effectively extinguished their hopes of securing a spot in the main U23 Asian Cup 2026 tournament, scheduled to be held in Saudi Arabia. Throughout their three qualifying matches, Indonesia managed to accumulate only four points, recording one win, one draw, and one loss. A particularly frustrating result for the team and its supporters was the goalless draw against Laos, which proved costly in their qualification bid.
Despite pre-tournament expectations that the team possessed sufficient quality to advance, key deficiencies ultimately led to their downfall. Pundits and fans pointed to a vulnerable defensive line, a lack of cohesive play, and an uninspired attacking front as critical factors contributing to the team’s elimination. The swift exit provoked a wave of strong criticism from Indonesian media outlets and the passionate fan base. CNN Indonesia, for instance, published a scathing critique, highlighting the stark contrast between the team’s previous aspirations of Olympic qualification and their current early departure from the U23 Asian Cup. Supporters echoed these sentiments, expressing concern over the team’s inconsistent form and rapid decline in performance.
Delving deeper into their group stage campaign, Indonesia secured a commanding 5-0 victory against Macau, considered the weakest team in the group. However, this was followed by a disappointing 0-0 stalemate with Laos, before ultimately succumbing to the 1-0 defeat against South Korea in the decisive match.
The popular sports website Bola provided an in-depth analysis of the team’s shortcomings, identifying a distinct lack of focus and determination among the players. Their report detailed a frail defensive structure, particularly in the early stages of matches, coupled with an attacking unit that lacked potency, frequently missing the target and creating minimal genuine scoring opportunities.
Under the guidance of Dutch coach Gerald Vanenburg, the U23 squad has faced a series of setbacks. This recent elimination follows another significant disappointment when the team lost the U23 ASEAN Championship final to Vietnam, further intensifying scrutiny on his leadership and tactical approach.
In response to the widespread criticism, PSSI President Erick Thohir offered a tempered perspective, stating that the team “lost with honor.” He acknowledged the players’ efforts and their exposure to new tactical systems, suggesting these experiences could be valuable. Nevertheless, Thohir emphasized the necessity of a thorough review of the team’s overall performance and results, aiming to implement necessary adjustments and better prepare the squad for future competitions.
This current downturn in form contrasts sharply with the period under former coach Shin Tae Yong. The South Korean tactician notably led the U23 Indonesian team to an impressive fourth-place finish in the U23 Asian Cup 2024. Observers suggest that the team’s performance has noticeably declined since his departure, raising questions about the team’s current trajectory.
