Indonesia's key strikers, Hokky Caraka and Dutch-Indonesian Jens Raven, started strong. Raven scored 6 goals in their opening 8-0 win against Brunei. However, in the following two matches against the Philippines and Malaysia, Indonesia's attack faltered, managing only an own goal from the opposition.

"I really hoped they would score against the Philippines and Malaysia," PSSI chairman Erick Thohir told CNN Indonesia. "They had some chances against Malaysia, but were too hasty."

Dutch-Indonesian striker Jens Raven (red jersey) dribbles during the 0-0 draw against Malaysia in the final Group A match of the 2025 AFF U23 Championship at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium on 21/7/2025. Photo: Hai Tu

Dutch-Indonesian striker Jens Raven (red jersey) dribbles during the 0-0 draw against Malaysia in the final Group A match of the 2025 AFF U23 Championship at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium on 21/7/2025. Photo: Hai Tu

Thohir believes the forwards aren't ready for the national team. They need to demonstrate their sharpness to impress head coach Patrick Kluivert.

"The strikers can't just score against Brunei," Thohir said. "They need to prove themselves in the semi-finals and final."

Against Malaysia, Indonesia controlled 68% of possession and had 10 shots, but only 3 were on target. Coach Gerald Vanenburg also acknowledged the need to improve finishing.

"I think everyone is right. We lack finishing ability," the Dutch coach said. "Usually, Jens Raven scores easily, but last night it wasn't like that."

The Dutch-Indonesian striker, born in 2005, stands at 1.89 m tall. He previously played for SV Nootdorp's youth team in the Netherlands and recently joined Bali United for the 2025-2026 season. The 19-year-old has been a key player since the Indonesian U19 team that won the 2024 AFF U19 Championship.

Meanwhile, Hokky Caraka, born in 2004, stands at 1.8 m tall. He plays domestically for PSS Sleman. Caraka has been regularly called up to the national team under coach Shin Tae-yong and has scored two goals in 11 matches.

Indonesia's semi-final opponent will be determined after the final matches in Groups B and C conclude tonight. They are likely to face the Group C winner, Thailand.

"I don't care if the opponent is Vietnam or Thailand," Jens Raven said after the draw with Malaysia. "We have to beat every opponent to become champions. With our current quality, we can do it."

Trung Thu