RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian men’s badminton team launched its 2026 Thomas Cup campaign with a flawless 5-0 victory over Algeria in the Group D opening match. Playing at Forum Horsens early Saturday morning WIB, the Red and White squad secured every point in straight games, showcasing a dominant blend of veteran experience and emerging talent.

The victory was finalized by the young doubles pair Raymond Indra and Nikolaus Joaquin, who made a stellar tournament debut. The duo overwhelmed Adel Hamek and Mohamed Abdelaziz Ouchefoun with a crushing 21-4, 21-7 scoreline in the final match of the tie.

A key highlight of the opening tie was the performance of Alwi Farhan, who transitioned from a backup player two years ago to the team's second singles mainstay. Alwi displayed remarkable composure as he defeated Mohamed Abderrahime Belarbi 21-8, 21-7.

"Two years ago, I was still the fourth singles and now I am the second singles. I am certainly proud and happy, but this is a responsibility I must carry," Alwi remarked after the match, as quoted by Antara.

The 2026 Indonesia Masters champion emphasized that the team’s recent training camp helped solidify the chemistry and mental toughness required for such high-stakes team events.

The 5-0 victory was a collective effort that began with Jonatan Christie securing the first singles point by defeating Adel Hamek with a score of 21-8, 21-6. This momentum continued in the second singles match as Alwi Farhan overcame Mohamed Abderrahime Belarbi 21-8, 21-7, while Anthony Sinisuka Ginting officially locked in the team's win in the third singles by beating Mohamed Abdelaziz Ouchefoun 21-8, 21-6.

In the doubles category, the pair of Fajar Alfian and Muhammad Shohibul Fikri extended the lead in the first doubles match with a 21-14, 21-8 victory over Mohamed Abderrahime Belarbi and Koceila Mammeri. Finally, the young duo of Raymond Indra and Nikolaus Joaquin completed the clean sweep in the second doubles by dominantly defeating Adel Hamek and Mohamed Abdelaziz Ouchefoun 21-4, 21-7.

The sweep puts Indonesia at the top of Group D, providing vital momentum ahead of their next clash. In the group’s other opening fixture, Thailand secured a 4-1 victory over France, highlighted by Kunlavut Vitidsarn’s win over Christo Popov.

Indonesia is scheduled to face Thailand on Sunday, April 26, in a match that will likely determine the group's leadership, before concluding the group stage against France on April 28. ***