The Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) hopes the Indonesian U-17 national team will gain valuable experience from the friendly matches they will play before competing in the 2025 U-17 World Cup.
Coach Nova Arianto's team is currently undergoing a training camp in the United Arab Emirates, having already played two friendlies. In the first, the Garuda Muda were defeated 2-1 by Paraguay, while in the second, they drew 0-0 against Ivory Coast.
"As for losing, it's a trial, so it's okay. Hopefully, they'll gain valuable experience in the real match," said PSSI Executive Committee (Exco) member Arya Sinulingga during the first day of the 2025 Media Cup at Pendekar Goozone Mini Soccer Cibis, South Jakarta, on Tuesday.
"So, what PSSI has provided to the federation, Coach Nova and his teammates, is excellent facilities, and a wealth of trial opportunities," he said.
Arya then mentioned the Garuda Muda's friendly match in the 2025 Independence Cup, held in Medan last August. Indonesia finished in second place in that tournament with four points.
This total points were obtained from a 2-0 win against Uzbekistan, a 2-2 draw against Tajikistan, and a 1-2 loss to Mali, the country that was runner-up in the 2015 U-17 World Cup.
"They have a chance to win matches. Even if they face Brazil, they'll be able to compete because they've already faced strong opponents. This is good for Coach Nova and the U-17 players," said Arya.
In the United Arab Emirates, Zahaby Gholy and his teammates will play their final match against Panama on Wednesday (October 29th). This match is their final friendly before competing in the 2025 U-17 World Cup, which begins next week.
In the U-17 World Cup, Indonesia will kick off their opening match against Zambia on Tuesday (November 4) at 10:45 PM WIB. In their next match, the Young Garuda will face Brazil on Friday (November 7) at 10:45 PM WIB and close with a match against Honduras on Monday (November 10) at 9:45 PM WIB.
Of the 48 nations divided into 12 groups, the top two teams will advance directly to the knockout stage. The group winners and runners-up will then be followed by the eight best third-placed teams, who will advance from the round of 32 to the final.
