Match Result: Indonesia U-17 Defeats Uzbekistan U-17 2-0 in the 2025 Independence Cup

The Indonesia U-17 national team began their campaign in the 2025 Independence Cup with a convincing 2-0 victory over Uzbekistan U-17. The match, held at the Sumatera Utara Main Stadium in Medan on Friday evening (August 15, 2025, local time), served as a statement performance for the Garuda Muda squad in front of thousands of fans filling the stands.

First Half: Garuda Muda Attacks Early

From the first whistle, Indonesia U-17 played aggressively. The roaring home support gave the players the confidence to take the initiative in attack. Quick passing combinations in midfield, led by Dafa Zaidan, frequently troubled Uzbekistan’s defense. The opening goal came in the 23rd minute when Dafa delivered a precise pass to Dimas Adi, who cut in from the left and fired a right-footed shot past the Uzbekistan goalkeeper. The stadium erupted in celebration.

After conceding, Uzbekistan tried to fight back, relying on long balls to exploit their wingers’ speed. However, Indonesia’s backline, marshaled by Rizky Pratama, stayed disciplined, cutting out most threats near the penalty box.

Second Half: Another Goal and Solid Defense

Entering the second half, Indonesia U-17 head coach Bayu Pratama kept the pressure on to secure the win. The strategy paid off in the 67th minute. From a right-side corner, Fabio Azka curled the ball into the penalty area, where an unmarked Algazani Dwi headed it into the bottom left corner of Uzbekistan’s goal, doubling the lead to 2-0.

After the second goal, Indonesia played more calmly, focusing on maintaining their advantage. Uzbekistan attempted counter-attacks but couldn’t break through Indonesia’s solid defense. Goalkeeper Farel Aditya also made two crucial saves in the closing minutes to preserve the clean sheet.

Keys to Indonesia’s Victory

1. Attacking Efficiency – Two of four shots on target found the net.
2. Midfield Dominance – Tight pressing and quick ball distribution disrupted Uzbekistan’s play.
3. Solid Defense – The backline and goalkeeper read the game well, ensuring a clean sheet.

This victory also showcased the maturity of Indonesia’s young players, who managed the match tempo well both in attack and defense.

Tournament Context

The 2025 Independence Cup serves as preparation for the 2025 U-17 World Cup. Aside from Indonesia and Uzbekistan, the tournament includes Tajikistan U-17 and Mali U-17. The format is a single round-robin, with each team meeting once. For Indonesia, it’s a prime opportunity to test tactics, build team chemistry, and gain experience against varied playing styles.

Uzbekistan is known for fast play and intense pressing, so this win carries significant strategic value.

Coach & Player Reactions

After the match, Coach Bayu Pratama praised his players’ discipline:

“The boys played according to plan. The early goal helped us control the game. But this is just the start—we must stay focused for the next match.”

First goal scorer Dimas Adi expressed his joy:

“I’m very happy to score for the team. Hopefully, this motivates us for the next matches.”

Next Match

Following this win, Indonesia will face Mali U-17 on Sunday (August 17, 2025), a match expected to be tougher due to Mali’s physical strength and aggressive play. Meanwhile, Uzbekistan will take on Tajikistan U-17 in the other fixture.

Final Score:
Indonesia U-17 2 – 0 Uzbekistan U-17
Goal Scorers: Dimas Adi (23’), Algazani Dwi (67’)

With this victory, Garuda Muda sends a strong message that they are ready to compete on the international stage. The passionate home crowd at the Sumatera Utara Main Stadium gave the young squad an extra boost. If they can maintain their consistency and fighting spirit, Indonesia U-17’s chances of lifting the 2025 Independence Cup trophy remain wide open.