RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia has carved its name into futsal history by reaching the semifinals of the 2026 AFC Futsal Asian Cup, where they will face Japan at Indonesia Arena, Jakarta, on Thursday at 7:00 p.m. local time. Head coach Hector Souto believes his team has what it takes to win.

This achievement marks Indonesia’s best performance in 11 appearances at the continental tournament since debuting as host in 2002. Previously, their highest finish was the quarterfinals in Kuwait four years ago, when they fell 2–3 to Japan, who went on to claim the title.

Now fate has brought the two sides together again, and Souto insists his squad must deliver their finest performance to advance to the final. 

“This is a very strong opponent, and I think we must be at our absolute professional best to have a chance of beating them,” said the Spanish coach during a pre-match press conference at Indonesia Arena on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

The clash carries added significance beyond the semifinal itself, as Indonesian players will reunite with their former coach Kensuke Takahashi, who now leads Japan. Souto welcomed the reunion warmly.

“For me, it is an honor. We have a very good relationship, and I feel comfortable with this situation. I also have strong ties with several Japanese players, as some of them were my students for six years,” Souto explained.

“This shows that futsal is a beautiful global sport. I am happy my players and his former players can meet him here. I hope our team performs well and defeats Japan this time,” he added.

Indonesian team's captain Mochammad Iqbal Iskandar echoed the sentiment, expressing respect for Takahashi while underlining his determination to fight for victory. 

“This is not the first time we’ve met. In Kuwait, he was still an assistant coach. Last year we met again at the Four Nations when he was already head coach. Personally, I will remain as professional as possible,” Iqbal said.

Before Indonesia’s showdown with Japan, the other semifinal will feature 13-time champions Iran against Iraq, who are making only their second semifinal appearance. That match kicks off at 3:00 p.m. local time.

AFC Futsal Asian Cup 2026 Semifinals Schedule (Thursday, February 5, Jakarta time):

- Iraq vs Iran - 3 p.m. 

- Indonesia vs Japan - 7 p.m. ***