TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Indonesian national futsal team triumphed 5-0 over South Korea as they kicked off Group A match in the 2026 AFC Futsal Asian Cup on Tuesday night, January 27, 2026. This result propelled Indonesia to the top of the temporary group standings.
Team captain M. Iqbal Rahmattulah scored the first goal for Garuda, bolstering their confidence in front of thousands of Red and White supporters who packed the arena.
Guided by Hector Souto, the squad dominated early in the game, posing threats to South Korea's goalposts several times through quick offensive plays. Meanwhile, the Indonesian goalkeeper remained vigilant in anticipating the opposing team's counterattacks.
Rio Pangestu then extended Indonesia's lead in the first half. The goal increased the pressure on the South Korean team, coached by Paulo Fernandes. Korea's defense was repeatedly breached by Iqbal and his teammates.
Entering the second half, Iqbal once again etched his name on the scoresheet with a powerful shot that eluded South Korean goalkeeper Jeong Joo Ho.
Indonesia's lead grew as Israr Megantara placed a finesse shot into the right corner of the net, deceiving the goalkeeper. The number-5 player's goal extended Indonesia's lead to 4-0.
The fifth goal for Indonesia came from a loose ball situation. Firman Ardiansyah unleashed a powerful shot that was parried by the South Korean goalkeeper. Reza promptly pounced on the rebound to secure a resounding 5-0 victory for hosting Indonesia.
At the start of the game, Hector Souto fielded Ahmad Habiebie as the goalkeeper, supported by Rizki Xavier, M. Iqbal Rahmattulah, Israr Megantara, and Firman Ardiansyah. Meanwhile, South Korea kicked off the game with Jeong Joo Ho as the goalkeeper, along with Kang Jukwang, Kim Gunwoo, Hwang Un, and Kim Minseong.
This victory serves as a crucial morale booster for Indonesia as the hosting team, as they look ahead to the upcoming matches in the group stage for 2026 AFC Futsal Asian Cup. The Indonesian national futsal team currently leads Group A, while awaiting the results of other matches in the same group.
Read: Indonesia Futsal Squad Prepares for 2026 AFC Asian Cup with Friendlies
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