Indonesia U17: History and fortune

Indonesia’s U17 team enjoyed a historic tournament, winning all three of their group-stage matches and securing a perfect 9-point tally - a feat matched only by Uzbekistan.

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Indonesia U17 and Uzbekistan U17 were the two teams with the best group-stage records at the 2025 AFC U17 Asian Cup. Photo: AFC

This performance secured Indonesia’s second consecutive appearance at the U17 World Cup, following their 2023 debut as tournament hosts.

Evandra Florasta scored three goals, placing him among the top contenders for the Golden Boot alongside Kim Eun Seong (South Korea), Asilbek Aliev (Uzbekistan), and Minato Yoshida (Japan). Fadly Alberto and Zahaby Gholy each added two goals to the tally.

Though only three players found the net, Indonesia’s squad depth impressed. Head coach Nova Arianto - formerly mentored by Shin Tae Yong - used 19 players across three matches, with only four unused (two of whom were backup goalkeepers).

This success reflects the Indonesian Football Federation’s (PSSI) investment under the leadership of President Erick Thohir. PSSI has focused on elite training, quality infrastructure, and exposure to strong footballing nations.

Thohir, a billionaire and former president of Serie A champions Inter Milan, brings both vision and financial backing to youth development. PSSI is now among the wealthiest football federations globally.

Former coach Shin Tae Yong's methods - emphasizing physical, technical, and tactical development - laid much of the groundwork for Indonesia's progress. Having led South Korea at the 2018 World Cup, his influence still echoes through the Garuda Muda.

Alongside investment and development, luck also played a role. Indonesia edged South Korea 1-0 in a match where they were outplayed for stretches. They also benefited from a lighter group featuring Yemen, the youngest team at the tournament (average age 15.9), and debutants Afghanistan.

Vietnam earns respect, Thailand disappoints

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Indonesia U17 displayed solid quality and benefited from a favorable group draw. Photo: AFC

Indonesian outlet Bola expressed regret that Vietnam U17 missed out on a World Cup spot, writing: “Although the Golden Star Warriors fell short, their effort deserves recognition.”

Bola quoted coach Cristiano Roland: “Despite not advancing, I’m proud of the team’s performance.” The Vietnamese public echoed this pride as the squad held their own against some of Asia’s strongest youth teams in Saudi Arabia.

Vietnam’s Football Federation (VFF) may not have PSSI’s financial resources, but it has followed a consistent, strategic path in youth development. VFF collaborates with clubs and training centers to identify and nurture talent through appropriate developmental frameworks.

Vietnam’s technical skill and fighting spirit earned praise, though they were drawn into a particularly tough group. Opponents included Japan (U17 Asian Cup record champions), Australia (2024 AFF U16 champions and U17 World Cup regulars), and UAE (three-time World Cup participants).

Looking ahead, coach Cristiano Roland and Vietnam’s clubs must help this U17 squad grow for mid- and long-term goals: qualifying for the 2030 World Cup, the 2031 Asian Cup, and even the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

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Vietnam U17 left a strong impression, playing on par with some of Asia’s top teams. Photo: VFF

Thailand's youth system under pressure

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Thailand U17 failed across the board. Photo: Changsuek

While Vietnam and Indonesia progressed, Thailand struggled. Their U17 squad exited the tournament without a win, continuing a troubling trend.

Thailand hasn’t won the AFF U16 Championship in the last six editions, losing four finals. They've also gone without a title in the past four regional U19 tournaments and have failed to win SEA Games gold in three consecutive editions - the worst stretch since the tournament adopted age limits in 2001.

Chayakorn Tanaddernkao, former interim coach of Thailand U17, criticized the Football Association of Thailand (FAT) for neglecting youth development. He also noted that Thai clubs prioritize profit over nurturing young players, further limiting talent growth.

Moreover, a lack of coordination between FAT and Thai League clubs has led to unfavorable scheduling for national youth teams.

With Madam Pang now leading FAT, Thai fans hope she can steer the country’s football back toward regional dominance - or at least to match the strides made by Indonesia and Vietnam.

Ngoc Huy