RRI.CO.ID, Bogor - Indonesia opened its 2026 AFF Cup or ASEAN Hyundai Cup campaign with a commanding 5-1 victory over Cambodia in the opening Group A match at Gelora Pakansari Stadium, Bogor, on Monday, July 27, 2026.

As quoted from the official website of the Ministry of Youth and Sports on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, the opening match was watched by 24,000 supporters at the stadium. Striker Mitchell Lee Baker, who recently obtained Indonesian citizenship, scored three of Indonesia's five goals. The remaining two goals were scored by Sandy Henny Walsh and Jens Raven.

Indonesia's Minister of Youth and Sports and Chairman of the Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI), Erick Thohir, said the victory was a positive result for Indonesia's opening match. However, he noted that the team's progress under head coach John Herdman would be more evident in the upcoming matches, particularly against Vietnam on August 3.

"This is the best squad we can field for the AFF Cup because the tournament is not part of the FIFA international match window. That means several players have not been able to join us, as some are still playing for their clubs overseas," he stated.

Erick added that he is optimistic the national team's performance will continue to improve in the next matches. He also expressed hope that all players would remain fit, noting that several squad members are still recovering from injuries.

"Hopefully our performance will be even better in the next match, and hopefully there will be no injuries. I know some players, such as Marselino and Ragnar, are still recovering," he said.

The Minister also praised the Bogor Regency Government for upgrading the facilities at Gelora Pakansari Stadium, which he said were significantly better than during his previous visit. According to him, collaboration between the government, football stakeholders, and clubs is essential to supporting the development of Indonesian football.