Gerald Vanenburg relaxed about Indonesia U-23 opponents in ASEAN Cup

Gerald Vanenburg, Indonesia U-23 national team coach, shows a calm attitude towards competition in Group A of ASEAN Cup U-23 2025 — the tournament to be held in Jakarta and Bekasi next month.

Indonesia U-23 national team is drawn in Group A alongside Malaysia, Philippines, and Brunei Darussalam — the competition will take place at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium and Patriot Candrabhaga Stadium from July 15-29, 2025.

The Dutch coach has decided not to hold friendly matches before the tournament — a strategy chosen to avoid player injury risks.

“This condition is good because it can minimize player injuries before the tournament,” said Vanenburg.

Instead, the Young Garuda squad conducts internal 11-versus-11 format matches to maintain team performance — preparation ahead of the opening game against Brunei Darussalam in Jakarta.