Indonesia U-16 Women’s National Team Thrash Timor Leste 6-0 in AFF Cup 2025 Opener

SURAKARTA – The Indonesia U-16 Women’s National Team kicked off their 2025 AFF U-16 Championship campaign in style with a dominant 6-0 victory over Timor Leste at Manahan Stadium, Surakarta, on Wednesday (August 20, 2025). This dominant win underscored Garuda Pertiwi’s authority in the opening match and bolstered their confidence ahead of the upcoming fixtures. With such a wide goal margin, Indonesia immediately claimed the top spot in Group A.

According to CNN Indonesia, the young Indonesian squad displayed confidence from the very first whistle, netting five goals in the first half alone.

Indonesia U-16 total dominance from the start

The match was completely under Indonesia’s control. Playing aggressively, with quick ball circulation and high pressing, the team forced Timor Leste into constant defensive struggles. Midfield dominance proved decisive, as attacking midfielders pressed relentlessly and won second balls.

Head coach Timo Scheunemann confirmed that the aggressive approach was part of the game plan.

“We wanted to show our character from the first minute. The girls played with confidence and discipline,” he said, quoted by CNN Indonesia.

Nasywa Salsabila’s hat-trick steals the spotlight

Indonesia U-16’s star in the opening match was Nasywa Salsabila Fatah, who shone brightly by scoring a quick hat-trick in the 14th, 23rd, and 36th minutes. Her agility and sharp spatial awareness completely unsettled Timor Leste’s defense throughout the first half. Beyond scoring goals, Nasywa also played a key role in creating space for her teammates, allowing Indonesia’s attacks to flow with more variety and precision.

Crowned Player of the Match, Nasywa expressed her delight:

“Victory doesn’t come instantly—we worked hard both on and off the pitch. We maintained strong communication, and thanks to the team’s collective effort, we earned this win. Hopefully, we can continue achieving victories in the matches ahead,” Nasywa told Tribunnews.com (August 20, 2025).

The Jazlyn–Jezlyn duo in attack

Besides Nasywa, major contributions came from twin players Jazlyn Kayla Firyal and Jezlyn Kayla Azkha. Jazlyn scored a beautiful goal from a set-piece in the 20th minute, while Jezlyn extended the lead to 5-0 in the 26th minute. Their presence added variety to Indonesia’s attack, both from set pieces and open play.

Syafia’s goal seals the win

Despite a commanding lead in the first half, Indonesia kept up the attacking intensity. After several missed chances, Syafia Tristalia Chorlienka capped off the goal fest with a strike in the 62nd minute.

Timor Leste attempted to improve their organization, but Indonesia’s relentless pressing from the front line left them struggling to build any meaningful attacks.

Timo’s winning start with Indonesia U-16

This dominant victory also marked a successful debut for head coach Timo Scheunemann with the Indonesia U-16 women’s national team. Known for his role in youth development, Timo emphasized that the main goal is not just results but also building character and improving quality of play.

“The players are still very young, most of them debutants at the international level. But they showed good discipline, determination, and organization. This is a promising start,” Timo told Antara.

Indonesia U-16 secure top spot in Group A

With this victory, Indonesia immediately rose to the top of Group A. Their big goal margin could prove crucial as the race to the semifinals heats up.

The 2025 AFF U-16 Women’s Championship features eight Southeast Asian nations, divided into two groups. Only the top two from each group advance to the semifinals.

Road to the championship

Although this opening win was highly convincing, Timo reminded his squad to stay focused.

“The tournament is still long. We must stay consistent in every match and maintain both the players’ physical and mental condition,” he said.

Up next, Indonesia face tough opponents such as Thailand and Vietnam, who have strong traditions in youth women’s football. Even so, the dominant result against Timor Leste has given Garuda Pertiwi Muda a huge confidence boost to make a serious mark in this tournament.

With their spirit burning high, this convincing first step could be the solid foundation toward their big dream: lifting the 2025 AFF U-16 Women’s Championship trophy.