Playing at home in Pakansari, Indonesia fielded what was considered its strongest lineup. Notably, the team featured Dutch-Indonesian heritage players: captain and midfielder Ivar Jenner, and forwards Rafael Struick and Mauro Zijlstra.

However, the skill gap with Mali proved difficult to bridge. On the FIFA rankings, the African team stands at 53rd, 69 places higher than Indonesia. Moreover, the physical and technical prowess of the African players was clearly superior, reminiscent of Indonesia's 0-2 loss to Guinea in the intercontinental play-off for an Olympic 2024 spot.

Indonesian-Dutch midfielder Iver Jenner (red jersey) plays in the 0-3 friendly loss to Mali at Pakansari Stadium, Indonesia, on 15/11/2025. *Photo: Bola.*

Immediately after kickoff, the visiting team applied strong pressure, scoring in the 5th minute. From a right-wing corner, Sekou Doucoure headed the ball in. By the 35th minute, Indonesia lost possession in defense, allowing Wilson Samake to dribble past goalkeeper Cahya Supriadi and double the lead.

Facing a higher-skilled opponent, Indonesia resorted to long-ball tactics. They did create some chances, but shots from Dony Tri Pamungkas and Ivar Jenner could not beat goalkeeper Bourama Kone.

Indonesia gained more comfortable possession from the 70th minute as Mali reduced their pressing intensity. However, coach Indra Sjafri's squad lacked the stamina for high-speed play. They managed to get the ball into the penalty area but struggled to create quality shots on Mali's goal.

The 3-0 scoreline was sealed in the first minute of second-half stoppage time. Capitalizing on a loose challenge from the opponent, Maoulaye Haidara stole the ball and volleyed it with his right foot from near the penalty area. The low shot struck the inside of the left post before finding the net.

Thailand midfielder Phon-ek Manikon (number 10) celebrates extending the lead to 2-0 during the 4-0 friendly win against India at Rajamangala Stadium, Thailand, on 15/11/2025. *Photo: ThailandNT.*

In an earlier match, hosts Thailand defeated India 4-0, with goals from four different players. In the 32nd minute, Siraphop Wandee met a cross from the right wing and struck with his left foot into the near post corner to open the scoring. Ten minutes later, Chinngoen Phutanyong earned a penalty, which Phon-ek Manikon converted to double the lead.

In the second half, Manikon again earned a penalty in the 46th minute, allowing Chaiyaphon Otton to score. The 4-0 score was sealed in the 62nd minute when Thanakrit Chotmuangpak scored from close range after a cross from the left wing by Yotsakorn Burapha.

Indonesia and Thailand will face Mali and India again on 18/11, both at home. These friendly matches serve as preparation for SEA Games 33 for both Thailand and Indonesia. Indonesia is the defending champion, while Thailand aims to reclaim the gold medal, which they last won in 2017.

Thailand chose a suitable opponent, whereas Indonesia opted for a very strong one. Coach Indra Sjafri explained that this challenging test was due to difficulty finding other opponents. "We wanted to play a strong team, and a moderately matched or weaker team. But this was not easy," he stated.

Hieu Luong