RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Indonesian U‑17 team showcased grit and discipline before Keanu Sanjaya’s late strike sealed a 1‑0 victory over China in their AFC U‑17 Asian Cup 2026 opener at King Abdullah Sport City Pitch A on Tuesday, May 5, 2026.

China pressed hard in the first half, breaking into Indonesia’s defense several times but failing to convert, Antara reported. The backline, marshaled by captain Mathew Baker, stood firm, while goalkeeper Mike Rajasa delivered crucial saves to keep the score level.

Indonesia struggled to find rhythm in the opening 30 minutes but grew into the game, with Chico Jericho nearly breaking through in the 43rd minute before being crowded out by three defenders.

In the second half, Indonesia maintained a compact 5‑4‑1 shape when defending and shifted to 3‑4‑3 in attack. China’s best chance came in the 62nd minute, but Rajasa denied it brilliantly.

Indonesia thought they had scored in the 67th minute from Farik Rizqi’s long throw, only for the referee to rule it out for handball. Baker later came close with a shot that drifted wide in the 78th minute.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 87th minute. Baker’s long pass found Keanu Sanjaya, who calmly slotted past goalkeeper Qin Ziniu to secure the win. Despite late pressure, two‑time champions China could not find an equalizer.

The result gives Indonesia three valuable points in Group B, placing them second behind Japan, who defeated Qatar 3‑1 earlier the same day. The victory also strengthens Indonesia’s chances of reaching the quarterfinals and qualifying for the U‑17 World Cup in Qatar later this year.

Next, Indonesia will face Qatar on Saturday, May 9, at 11:30 p.m. Jakarta time, while Japan meets China at 11:00 p.m. Jakarta time.

Line‑ups:

• Indonesia: Mike Rajasa (GK), Mathew Baker (C), Pandu Aryo, Farik Rizqi, Peres Akwila Tjoe, Farrel Luckyta, Noha Pohan, Fardan Farras, Dava Yuna, Chico Jericho, Ichiro Akbar.
  Coach: Kurniawan Dwi Yulianto.
• China: Qin Ziniu (GK), Jin Yucheng, Nan Zixun, Li Junpeng, Zhang Xuyao, Zhou Yunuo, He Sifan, Wan Xiang, Shuai Weihao, Wang Heyi, Pan Chaowei.
  Coach: Bin Ukishima. ***