November 5, 2025 | 05:00 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesia’s U-17 national team failed to earn their first points in the 2025 FIFA U-17 World Cup after falling 1–3 to Zambia in their Group H opener at Aspire Academy, Doha, on Tuesday night, November 4, 2025.
Head coach Nova Arianto highlighted the stark contrast between his team’s first- and second-half performances, acknowledging lapses in focus that cost them the match.
“Playing at the World Cup level requires courage. If we play with fear, it will be difficult,” Nova said in the mixed zone after the game.
Garuda Muda had taken an early lead but struggled to maintain their momentum before halftime. Nova said his players showed greater determination after the break. “Their intensity improved in the second half. They pressed more aggressively and managed to create several chances,” said the 45-year-old coach.
Nova described the loss as a valuable learning experience before Indonesia’s next challenge against Brazil, one of the tournament’s favorites.
“We will make adjustments to ensure the players are more prepared. Against Brazil, they must not play with fear,” said the former assistant coach of Shin Tae-yong.
He added that the team’s base formation would likely remain unchanged for the next match. “Brazil are a big team, but we want to test how far our players can compete,” he said.
The former Persebaya Surabaya and Persib Bandung defender emphasized mental strength as the team’s main focus moving forward. “I told the players not to be afraid before the game. Try first, show what we can do. My hope is for them to be braver and more confident when facing Brazil,” Nova said.
Indonesia had briefly taken the lead in the 12th minute through Zahaby Gholy, who capitalized on a rebound after Zambia goalkeeper Christo Chitambala failed to hold Evandra Florasta’s cross.
However, Zambia quickly turned the game around. Abel Nyirongo equalized in the 35th minute before scoring again two minutes later to make it 2–1. Lukonde Mwale sealed the win for Zambia in the 42nd minute with a powerful long-range strike.
With this result, Indonesia sit third in Group H without any points. They will next face Brazil on Friday, November 7, 2025, at 10:45 PM WIB. Zambia, meanwhile, will take on Honduras at the same time.
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