Indonesia faces a critical challenge at SEA Games 2025, needing a decisive victory against Myanmar to advance to the semifinals. The tournament format allows only the three group winners and the best-performing second-placed team to progress. With no points and a goal difference of -1, Indonesia's path to qualification hinges on a significant win.

Currently, Malaysia leads the group of second-placed teams with 3 points and a goal difference of +1. However, Malaysia has completed their group stage matches and cannot improve their standing. This leaves a narrow opening for Indonesia. If Indonesia defeats Myanmar 2-0, they would match Malaysia's goal difference of +1 but would still rank lower due to fewer goals scored (2 compared to 4). Therefore, Indonesia must win by at least three goals against Myanmar. Alternatively, a two-goal victory with specific scores like 5-3, 6-4, or 7-5 would also secure their wildcard spot in the semifinals.

An opening 0-1 loss to the Philippines seemed to put an early end to Indonesia's group stage run. However, Vietnam's 2-0 victory over Malaysia at Rajamangala stadium in Bangkok on 11/12 kept the island nation's hopes alive, setting the stage for this crucial encounter.

Indonesian forward Mauro Nils Zijlstra (left) challenges Noah River Leddel of the Philippines for a high ball during the opening Group C match of SEA Games 2025 at 700th Anniversary stadium, Chiang Mai, Thailand, on 8/12. *Photo: Bola*.

Ahead of the decisive Group C match, Mauro Zijlstra expressed confidence and urged his teammates to improve their ball distribution speed. The 21-year-old forward believes Myanmar will likely play with a packed defense to limit Indonesia's opportunities. "I think I need to move more, and the ball needs to be played quicker," Mauro said. "In the last match, the pace of play was too slow, especially in the first half. In the second half, we had two or three clear chances. I hope the whole team capitalizes better to score and win."

Mauro also admitted he has not been in his best form due to a lack of space and quality passes. "I need to be put in the right positions and receive better passes. The match against the Philippines was very difficult, with too many defenders surrounding me. I hope this time I will have more space," he added. The forward, who plays for Dutch club Volendam, also addressed fans after the disappointing start. "I understand the fans' disappointment when we lost the first match," he stated. "But things are improving. I hope the team wins tomorrow, showing we are getting closer to the gold medal."

Hong Duy