As part of a new series launching during our coverage of the 2018 AFF Cup, we will be looking at the view of each major South-East Asian nation from the perspective of their direct rivals. Today, we look at the different opinions of the Indonesia team heading into this tournament.
The View from Thailand
The 2016 runners-up are Thailand’s biggest Group B opponent. Under Spanish coach, Luis Milla, they looked like a very organised side who could hurt you on the counter. However, with Bima Sakti’s recent appointment, we are not sure what to expect from Indonesia.
Strengths: Beto Gonçalves looks like a dangerous addition to the Indonesian team, and with young talents such as Evan Dimas, Septian David and Febri Hariyadi as support, Indonesia will always have a goal threat. Plus, key players from 2 years ago such as Hansamu Yama and Stefano Lilipaly are also present, bringing a level of continuity.
Weaknesses: Indonesia always play with passion, but what they seem to lack is tactical discipline and a game management plan. So the split up with Luis Milla and appointment of legend Bima Sakti, someone with little coaching experience on the international level, only a few weeks before the start of the tournament doesn’t look so good for the side.
Obb Deewajin, Football Tribe Thailand
The View from Malaysia
The five-time runners-up will be in a group with Singapore, Philippines, Timor Leste, and 2016 Champions Thailand. Indonesia, who have recently missed the FIFA ban, have shown a good improvement with some of their teams past the knockout round in the Asian Cup and U-19 AFC matches recently. Indonesia has a great reputation and will be hoping that this year they can create a big surprise.
Strengths: They have Evan Dimas who heads the central part of Indonesia team. He is a calming influence in the middle of the pitch. In addition, the side look solid with the presence of Hansamu Yama, who is in charge of the defense. It would have been rather difficult for other teams to find a goal because Hansamu Yama is good at reading an opponent’s game.
Weaknesses: One of their drawbacks is the absence of some major players like Andik Vemansyah, Boaz Solossa, and Irfan Bachdim. The lack of creative players to create opportunities and score goals.
Aiman Nazirmuddin, Football Tribe Malaysia
The View from Vietnam
For many years, Indonesia has been one of the best team in the region. They are unlucky for not winning any AFF Cups until now. With the new format of the Cup, they have advantage to win this iteration of the tournament.
Strengths: The team has good mentality, and are good tactically when they play at home. They do not fear anyone when play inside Indonesia.
Weaknesses: Indonesia’s team comprises of a lot of young players, so they can lose their concentration at the important points of the game, which can sometimes lead to defeats.
Tran Tien, Football Tribe Vietnam