Indonesia U-17 Team Faces North Korea in Asian Cup Quarter-Finals

Indonesia U-17 team will face North Korea in the Asian Cup U-17 2025 quarter-finals at King Abdullah Sports City Hall Stadium, Jeddah. Coach Nova Arianto‘s squad — which performed perfectly in the group stage with clean sweep victories — is ready to face the tough challenge.

North Korea under O Thae Song‘s guidance — who qualified as Group D runners-up with five undefeated points — is known for their tenacious playing character and high determination. They possess physical strength and mental fortitude that make them tournament title contenders.

“North Korea is one of the teams we’re very cautious about in terms of individual quality, work ethic, physical strength, and mentality,” stated Nova Arianto. “North Korea is one of the tournament favorites.”

“But I want the children not to be afraid of this situation and I want my players to have strong mentality,” added Nova Arianto, who emphasized the importance of mental preparation ahead of the U-17 World Cup.

Victory would take Indonesia to the semifinals — an achievement last reached about 35 years ago when they finished fourth in the 1990 edition.