Jakarta – The Indonesian national futsal team is one win away from its first-ever AFC Futsal Asian Cup title, after a stunning 5-3 extra-time victory over defending champions Japan in Thursday’s semi-final at the Indonesia Arena. The result marks a historic moment for Indonesian futsal, sending the host nation into Saturday’s championship match against Iran [[3]].This is the second time Indonesia has hosted the tournament, previously doing so in 2002 [[2]].
Jakarta –
The Indonesia national futsal team has advanced to the final of the 2026 AFC Futsal Cup, marking a historic first for the nation in the competition. Indonesia secured their spot with a thrilling 5-3 victory over Japan on Thursday, January 5th, at the Indonesia Arena in Jakarta.
The semifinal clash saw Indonesia take an early lead, fueled by a goal from Samuel Eko and an own goal by Japan’s Takehiro Motoishi. The match remained fiercely competitive, with Japan leveling the score at 2-2 through Motoishi and Kazuya Shimizu in the 31st and 35th minutes, respectively.
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Indonesia responded strongly, regaining the lead at 3-2 in the 38th minute. Japan once again found the equalizer, converting a penalty to tie the game at 3-3. However, a late surge from the Indonesian side, with goals from Reza Gunawan and Dewa Rizki in added time, sealed the 5-3 win.
The victory has sparked widespread celebration throughout Indonesia, with many praising the team’s performance. Atta Halilintar, Vice Chairman of the Indonesian Futsal Federation (FFI), has been lauded for his support of the program, but was quick to deflect individual credit.
Responding to a fan’s message on Instagram – “One of the heroes behind Indonesia’s futsal journey” – Halilintar emphasized the collaborative effort that led to the team’s success. “This is all thanks to the incredible cooperation of everyone in Indonesian futsal,” he replied.
This historic run to the final represents a significant step forward for Indonesian futsal on the international stage. The Indonesian national futsal team will now face Iran in the championship game on Saturday, February 7th, at the Indonesia Arena.
(aff/nds)
