RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia’s women’s futsal team is focusing on defensive discipline and sharper transitions after a 3-0 opening defeat to hosts Thailand in Group A of the 2026 ASEAN Women’s Futsal Championship, as they prepare for a decisive clash against Malaysia on Wednesday, February 25, 2026.

Head coach Luis Estrela said his side must quickly learn from their mistakes at Terminal 21 Korat in Nakhon Ratchasima, where lapses in concentration and defensive transitions proved costly.

“I think Thailand deserved to win. We need to look at what we did well and learn from our mistakes, especially in defensive transition, which was not good. Tomorrow we have the second match against a fresher team (Malaysia),” Estrela said after Tuesday’s match, February 24, as quoted by Antara.

Thailand secured victory through goals from Panwasa Kingthong in the 12th minute, Jenjira Bubpha in the 20th, and Darika Peanpailun in the 23rd, avenging their penalty shootout defeat to Indonesia in the semifinals of the 2025 SEA Games.

After a balanced opening 10 minutes, Thailand broke the deadlock when a long throw from the goalkeeper created a scramble in front of Indonesia’s goal, allowing Panwasa to head into an empty net.

Indonesia responded with greater attacking intent. Marsya Aulia Nurhalisa had two chances in quick succession, both narrowly off target. In the 19th minute, Nisma Francida’s clever pass found Fitri Sundari in front of the goal, but she was unable to convert.

Just as Indonesia appeared to gain momentum, Thailand doubled its lead before halftime when Jenjira struck first time from a kick-in situation, making it 2-0 at the break.

Indonesia pressed higher in the second half, but another lapse allowed Darika to steal possession in a dangerous area and score Thailand’s third goal. Despite late pressure, including a power-play strategy in the final seven minutes, Indonesia could not find a breakthrough.

Estrela also pointed to preparation issues, noting the team’s physical condition was below its usual standard. “I feel we paid for some mistakes in preparation because we arrived very close to the start of the competition, and physically we were not as strong as usual,” he said.

“But there are no excuses. I am happy with their performance, but we must be more clinical in defense and follow opponents’ movements,” he added.

The result puts Thailand, coached by Thanatorn Santanaprasit, top of Group A with three points and within reach of a semifinal spot.

Indonesia’s semifinal hopes now hinge on their final group match against Malaysia. A win would keep their campaign alive, while another slip could end their run in the tournament. ***