Indonesian soccer player Ivar Jenner (top) celebrates on Sept. 12, 2023, with his teammates after scoring a goal during the 2024 AFC U-23 qualifier match between Indonesia and Turkmenistan at the Manahan Stadium in Surakarta, Central Java. (Antara/Mohammad Ayudha)
Indonesia cruised to a 2-0 win over Turkmenistan on Tuesday to seal a spot in the upcoming 2024 AFC U-23 Asian Cup in Qatar.
The Tuesday win placed Indonesia at the top of Group K in the qualifying campaign, bringing the team closer to its debut in Asia’s premier youth soccer tournament.
Playing at Manahan Stadium in Surakarta, Central Java, the Indonesian U-23 soccer team clinched the win thanks to goals from debutant Ivar Jenner’s deflected shot at the 40th minute and a header from Pratama Arhan just seconds before the full-time whistle.
President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo attended the match along with first lady Iriana, Soccer Association of Indonesia (PSSI) Chief Erick Tohir, PSSI deputy chief Zainuddin Amali and tens of thousands of fans cheering on the U-23 team, which was nicknamed “Young Garuda”.
Speaking to reporters after the match, Jokowi said the win was a historic one. “We haven’t won against Turkmenistan since 2012. Thanks to the 2-0 win, we have booked our place in Qatar,” the President said.
Jokowi also called on Young Garuda and its coaching staff to continue training ahead of the tournament in April next year.
“There’s still a long road ahead for the preparations. I think we’ll go in a much better condition,” Jokowi said.
