Indonesia's national futsal team narrowly missed out on their first AFC Futsal Asian Cup title tonight, falling to powerhouse Iran in a dramatic final. The match ended in a thrilling five-five draw before Iran secured victory with a four-five win in the penalty shootout.
Goals for Indonesia came from: Reza in the 7th minute, Israr Megantara with a hat-trick in the 8th, 9th, and 49th minutes, and Samuel Eko in the 24th minute. Iran's goals were scored by: Tayebi in the 3rd minute, Mahdi Karimi in the 18th and 37th minutes, an own goal by Samuel Eko in the 23rd minute, and Salar Aghapour in the 49th minute.
Iran entered the 2026 tournament as the dominant force in Asian futsal, boasting 13 championships and two runner-up finishes in 17 previous editions. This marked Indonesia's first appearance in the final. On the latest FIFA futsal rankings, Iran stands at 5th, 19 positions higher than Indonesia.
The final was also charged with emotion from both head coaches. Iran's coach, Vahid Shamsaei, spoke tearfully about the losses and turmoil in his home country, stemming from a series of protests in January. He viewed Iran's presence in Indonesia and reaching the final as a tremendous effort.
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Indonesia (in red) lost to Iran in the AFC Futsal Asian Cup 2026 final at the Indonesia Arena on 7/2. Photo: AFC
Meanwhile, Indonesia's coach, Hector Souto, became emotional when discussing his longing for his wife and children. He later expressed anger at a question suggesting Indonesia had no chance against Iran. "People may think the cup already belongs to Iran. For me, it belongs to no one yet," Souto stated at the pre-match press conference.
The Indonesia Arena in Jakarta was once again packed with 16,000 spectators. They witnessed Iran's customary strength, with an opening goal in the 3rd minute. From a right-wing kick, Mahdi Karimi passed to Tayebi, who struck with his right foot. The ball deflected off a home player, changing direction to open the scoring.
However, between the 7th and 9th minutes, Indonesia launched an incredible counter-attack, scoring three consecutive goals. First, Dewa Rizki's long-range shot bounced awkwardly, preventing goalkeeper Bagher from securing it. This rapid succession of goals showcased Indonesia's fierce determination.
Starting Lineups:
Indonesia: Ahmad Habiebie, Firman Adriansyah, Israr Megantara, Iqbal Rahmattulah, Rizki Xavier.
Substitutes: Nizar Nayaruddin, Wendy Ick, Dewa Amanda, Reza Gunawan, Rio Putra, Ardiansyah Nur, Syauqi Saud, Samuel Eko, Yogi Saputra.
Iran: Bagher Mohammadi, Derakhshani, Mahdi Karimi, Salar Aghapour, Azimi Hematabadi.
Substitutes: Mahdi Rostami, Gholami, Hossein Sabzi, Medikhani, Moslem Oladghobad, Somehsofla, Masoud Shavardazi, Saeid Abbasi, Tayebi Bidgoli.
