Indonesian U-17 national team coach Nova Arianto emphasized the importance of mental strength, courage in duels, and increasing international playing time after his team played two friendly matches against China U-17.
In the second friendly match against the Chinese U-17 national team played at the Indomilk Arena Stadium, Tangerang Regency, Wednesday, the Indonesian national team lost 2-3 to their guests.
In the previous meeting played at the same venue on Sunday (8/2), Nova's troops lost 0-7.
"Today we saw a different face of the match. Because previously we... we know we lost 7-0. And today, I'm grateful, once again, even though the result wasn't what we had hoped for, I saw the players change mentally," Nova said at a post-match press conference.
"Because I think that's crucial. Because if they don't have a strong mentality, it's definitely going to be difficult for us to face a team like China. But I'm happy that today, all the players worked together incredibly well, played disciplined and followed instructions, and that's what they must carry forward."
"Because they will be in the AFF Cup and the Asian Cup in the future. And hopefully, our tradition of qualifying for the World Cup can continue," he continued.
He added that in the second match the players appeared more confident, disciplined, and brave in physical duels, something that was considered lacking in the first meeting.
