The AFF U23 Championship, like other tournaments, requires head coaches to attend pre- and post-match press conferences. However, Vanenburg was unexpectedly absent, sending assistant Frank van Kempen in his place after the semi-final at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium on 25/7.

"Coach Vanenburg lost his voice. That's why I'm here," Van Kempen said. "He's had enough for one night."

Coach Gerald Vanenburg during Indonesia's 1-1 draw with Thailand after 120 minutes and 7-6 penalty shootout victory in the 2025 AFF U23 Championship semi-final at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Indonesia, on 25/7/2025. Photo: Bola

Coach Gerald Vanenburg during Indonesia's 1-1 draw with Thailand after 120 minutes and 7-6 penalty shootout victory in the 2025 AFF U23 Championship semi-final at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Indonesia, on 25/7/2025. Photo: Bola

Vanenburg experienced a tense match, constantly directing and shouting from the sidelines. Indonesia conceded a goal in the 60th minute, equalizing only in the 84th minute thanks to Jens Raven. They then won 7-6 in the penalty shootout.

"It was a very difficult match," Van Kempen said. "Winning after a penalty shootout is exciting for the whole team, and we're very happy to beat Thailand and reach the final."

Goalkeeper Ardiansyah was named man of the match. He made four saves, the most impressive being a double save in the 116th minute from Yotsakorn Burapha's long-range shot and Chawanwit Sealao's follow-up. In the penalty shootout, he saved Yotsakorn's eighth penalty to secure the victory.

Ardiansyah attended the press conference with Van Kempen and appeared to fight back tears while answering questions. "It wasn't an easy victory. Winning in a penalty shootout is perhaps Indonesia's destiny," the 2003-born goalkeeper said.

Indonesia will face Vietnam, who beat the Philippines 2-1, in the final on 29/7 at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium.

In the 2023 final, Indonesia and Vietnam drew 0-0 after 120 minutes. In the penalty shootout, goalkeeper Ernando Ari missed the sixth penalty, resulting in a 5-6 loss and Vietnam lifting the cup. Three months earlier, Indonesia dramatically defeated Vietnam 3-2 in the semi-final of the 32nd SEA Games in Cambodia.

Indonesia's squad is facing some challenges, as forward Jens Raven limped off in the final minutes. Previously, Arkhan Fikri and Toni Firmansyah were also injured and missed the semi-final.

Hieu Luong