"The defense needs to improve its concentration," Leandro told Bola. "Despite controlling the match, Indonesia conceded a goal in a situation that could have been avoided. In some plays, Cambodia still found space after Indonesia lost possession."

Coach Luciano Leandro. Photo: Historia

Leandro, 60, played for PSM Makassar and Persija Jakarta at the end of his career. He also coached from 2007 to 2019, leading Makassar and Persipura Jayapura. He noted that Indonesia reduced their tempo after establishing a comfortable lead against Cambodia. This allowed the visiting team more space to organize counter-attacks, rather than continuing to face pressure as they did early in the match.

Cambodia had only three shots throughout the match and did not create many clear opportunities, but they still managed to advance the ball effectively at times after turnovers. Leandro believes this is a detail Indonesia needs to address before facing stronger opponents in the ASEAN Cup. He also commented that Indonesia could have won by a larger margin if they had maintained their intensity for the entire 90 minutes. In addition to their five goals, the home team created many other chances but failed to convert them.

Conversely, Leandro praised Indonesia's attacking prowess. Mitchell Baker impressed in his debut for the national team, scoring a hat-trick in just 55 minutes. The 1,97 m tall forward consistently won aerial duels and made intelligent runs in the box, becoming the most dangerous threat in Indonesia's attack.

Midfielder Eliano Reijnders (left) dribbles during the opening match of Group A at the ASEAN Cup 2026 against Cambodia, at Pakansari Stadium, Bogor, Indonesia on 27/7/2026. Photo: Detik

Leandro observed that Indonesia attacked very effectively, converting their ball possession advantage into goals. He also noted the players' flexible movement, which created many difficulties for Cambodia's defense in marking. Another player praised was midfielder Thom Haye. The 31-year-old player provided three assists, controlled the match tempo, and played a central role in Indonesia's gameplay. According to Leandro, another positive aspect was their high-pressing ability. Indonesia often regained possession deep in Cambodia's half, maintaining continuous pressure and limiting the opponent's ball control time.

However, Leandro stated that a team aiming for a championship cannot rely solely on attacking strength. The ability to maintain defensive focus and consistent intensity throughout the match will determine Indonesia's chances of progressing far. "The 5-1 result shows Indonesia is improving and possesses strong attacking potential. But if they improve defensive details and maintain intensity for 90 minutes, they will have a great chance to compete for the championship," Leandro said.

The victory over Cambodia gave Indonesia three points after one match, placing them third in Group A behind Singapore and Vietnam. Indonesia remains a team with a rich tradition but has never won the title. Over 16 tournaments, the team has played 81 matches, winning 40, drawing 18, and losing 23. Indonesia has scored 198 goals but conceded 135, significantly more than the two most successful teams, Thailand (108 goals conceded) and Vietnam (83).

Indonesia will face Timor Leste in their next match on 31/7 at Chonburi Stadium (Thailand).

Hoang An (according to Bola)