Timo Scheunemann Targets Quality Performance from Indonesia U-16 Women’s Team

The Indonesia U-16 Women’s National Team will begin their journey in the ASEAN U-16 Women’s Championship 2025 tomorrow, Wednesday, August 20, with a Group A opener against Timor Leste at Manahan Stadium, Solo. The tournament will run until August 29, with Solo serving as the host city (Wikipedia).

Coach Timo Scheunemann emphasized in his pre-match press conference on Tuesday that his focus extends beyond chasing victories. He wants his young players to show a high level of football quality, laying the foundation for a brighter future in Indonesian women’s football.

“We can deliver quality performances. This is more than winning or losing—it’s about helping women’s football advance to the next level,” Timo said as reported by Antara.

More than results: building the future of women’s football

Timo highlighted that consistent quality play is essential if Indonesia wants to establish a sustainable women’s football industry.

“There cannot be a pro league without quality game play. Fans simply won’t turn up if the level isn’t high,” he added

Indonesia U-16 squad and group stage challenge

For this tournament, Timo has called up 23 players after a careful selection process. Indonesia is placed in Group A alongside Malaysia and Timor Leste, with only group winners and the best runner-up advancing to the semifinals.

On the competition, Timo admitted he remains cautious:

“Every match is 50-50; we don’t know who has the upper hand. It will come down to performance on the pitch.”

Claudia Scheunemann as an example

The coach also shared the story of his daughter, Claudia Scheunemann, now playing in the Netherlands with FC Utrecht, as an illustration of how competing at higher levels from a young age can shape players’ mentality and growth (Wikipedia).

Towards a stronger women’s football culture

As the tournament kicks off, the Indonesia U-16 Women’s National Team carries more than just hopes of advancing from the group stage. Under Timo Scheunemann’s guidance, this campaign is seen as a stepping stone toward building a stronger foundation for women’s football in Indonesia. Every performance offers a chance to shape the mentality of young players, inspire future generations, and prove that Indonesian women’s football can compete at the regional level and beyond.