Southeast Asia Indonesia

Indonesia U-22 ready to face ‘defensive-minded’ Timor Leste

Assistant coach Bima Sakti admitted that Indonesia U-22 must outwit Timor Leste U-22 in order to maintain the team’s positive form in 2017 SEA Games.

The Young Garuda are sitting in the second place of Group B with four points after playing a 1-1 draw against favourites Thailand and defeating Philippines 3-0.

Bima is fully aware of Timor Leste’s tactic which usually deploy a defensive-minded formation when they come up against stronger opponents.

The 41-year-old warns his team that they will have to cope with the frustration of opponents trying to unsettle their way of going about their business.

“We had a video session (about learning opponents’ tactic). We told the players how to deal with Timor Leste when attacking or defending. So the players must stay focus and concentration,” Bima told reporters.

“We have to break their defensive area as early as possible. Timor Leste use 4-1-4-1 formation. Good ball possession and fast attack are needed.”

Indonesia and Timor Leste are scheduled to play at Selayang Municipal Council Stadium on Sunday.