7M - Indonesian Futsal National Team Players Reflect on Dominant 5-0 Victory Over South Korea

The Indonesian National Futsal Team began their campaign in Group A of the 2026 AFC Futsal Asian Cup with a resounding 5-0 win against South Korea. The match took place at the Indonesia Arena in Jakarta on Tuesday (January 27). 

Head coach Hector Souto Vazquez credited the team’s early goals, scored by Mochammad Iqbal in both halves, as the key to their success. These goals boosted the confidence of players like Rio Pangestu, Israr Megantara, and Reza Gunawan, enabling them to add further to the scoreline. 

“Before the match, I asked the players one question: Why in previous games did no one seem to want to play during the opening minutes? I emphasized that the game lasts 40 minutes, not 38, 37, or 36,” said Souto after the match, as quoted byAntara on Wednesday (January 28). 

The Spanish coach expressed satisfaction with the team’s tactical execution and praised the players’ relentless effort in securing a clean sheet victory. “I must congratulate the players—they are the true protagonists of this achievement. As a coach, I can only guide from the sidelines,” he added. 

According to an Instagram post from @bolalobfutsal, 6,360 spectators attended the match live. However, Souto expressed hope for larger crowds in future games. “Honestly, I wish the arena were full. I hope for our next match, Indonesia Arena will be packed. This would greatly motivate the players, who are tired but eager to showcase their best for the Indonesian people,” said the former Bintang Timur Surabaya coach. 

With this victory, Indonesia tops Group A with three points, edging out Iraq on goal difference. Iraq had earlier defeated Kyrgyzstan 4-2. 

The Indonesian team will next face Kyrgyzstan on Thursday (January 29) at 19:00 WIB (Western Indonesia Time) at the Indonesia Arena.