The message was clear from head coach Bima Sakti and the Indonesia Under-17 side showed their quality to win their second point of the FIFA U17 World Cup 2023 last night when they held Panama to a 1-1 draw at the Gelora Bung Tomo Stadium.
It was Indonesia’s second draw in Group A following their 1-1 draw against Ecuador in their opening game a few days earlier.
“I told the players that at the start we wanted to win. But, if you can’t win, at least draw. Don’t lose,” said the former Indonesian captain.
“In the first half, we were under tremendous pressure from Panama until they scored the goal.”
Panama scored through Oldemar Castillo before the home team replied through Arkhan Kaka.
“I spoke to the players in the dressing room. They were down and gloomy, I told them not to give up. We are a good team,” added Bima.
“Forget the first half; now focus on the second half. Thankfully, the players responded and created several opportunities after the restart and finally scored the equalising goal.”
In the final game of Group A on Thursday, host Indonesia will face Morocco at the Gelora Bung Tomo Stadium while Panama will face leaders Ecuador at the Manahan Stadium in Surakarta.
After two matches in Group A, Ecuador lead with four points while Morocco are second with three points, Indonesia third with two points and Panama fourth with one point.
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Photos Courtesy #PSSI
