Indonesia Warned of Malaysia’s Strength Ahead of ASEAN Futsal 2026 Clash

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Fresh off a commanding 7-0 victory over Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia’s national futsal team is bracing for a tougher challenge as they face Malaysia in their second Group B match of the ASEAN Futsal Championship 2026 at Nonthaburi Stadium, Thailand, scheduled for Tuesday, April 7.

Head coach Hector Souto has urged caution, noting Malaysia’s potential despite their recent defeat to Australia.

“Tomorrow we will face Malaysia. They are fielding many new players, but from what I observed during their warm-up, they are a team with good players. Step by step, we will see what we can apply on the court," Souto said in a written statement on Monday, April 6, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

Indonesia’s squad also features several new faces, but Souto remains confident in their ability to perform. “I am sure we will compete very well tomorrow. The final result we cannot know yet, but I believe this team will show extraordinary performance and hard work,” said the Spanish man.

He highlighted the strong spirit within the squad as a key factor. “Motivating this team is very easy because they already have the dream of becoming national players for a long time," he said, adding that some of the players have had the chance to wear the jersey during the tournament in China.

"This squad is a good mix, even though only two players remain from the main team at the last Asian Cup. Their great spirit is our main strength right now,” Souto explained.

Indonesia currently leads Group B with three points and a seven-goal advantage after their opening win. Brunei sits at the bottom with zero points. In the other Group B fixture, Malaysia fell 1-2 to Australia despite initially taking the lead through Muhammad Adam Rayyan. Australia equalized through Tyler Garner before Ethan de Melo secured the comeback victory.

With that result, Australia occupies second place with three points and a plus-three goal difference, while Malaysia sits third with no points and a minus-three goal difference.

Indonesia enters the match as defending champions, having lifted the ASEAN Futsal title in 2024. Souto’s men will now look to build on their strong start and reinforce their status as favorites in the regional tournament. ***