Indonesia's U16 Women Football Advanced to Srikandi Merdeka Cup Semifinals

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesian U16 women’s national football team secured a perfect record in Group A of the Srikandi Merdeka Cup 2026, beating Hong Kong 1-0 to advance to the semifinals and strengthen its bid for the title on home soil.

Keysya Arabella scored in the ninth minute after receiving a through ball and beating Hong Kong goalkeeper Wong Hiu Yau Hazel on Tuesday night, August 18, 2026, Antara reported.

Before the goal, Indonesia had a golden opportunity through Fadilla, who broke free from Hong Kong’s defense. However, the young forward fell and failed to finish the chance.

Referee Yeni Krisdianto initially awarded Indonesia a penalty, but after reviewing the incident through VAR, she ruled that there had been no foul and canceled the decision.

Indonesia, coached by Timo Scheunemann, continued to launch attacks, forcing Hong Kong’s defense to work hard to contain the pressure. Hong Kong also created several opportunities through counterattacks, but Indonesia’s defense successfully stopped their efforts.

After the break, Indonesia continued to create chances. Fadilla was caught offside in the 50th minute, while Diva Aulia Putri’s shot went over the crossbar in the 57th minute.

Scheunemann then made two substitutions to strengthen Indonesia’s attack.

Hong Kong goalkeeper Wong Hiu Yau Hazel produced several important saves, including a stop against a powerful shot from Shifana Rizak Nadhifa in the 75th minute.

The 1-0 victory secured Indonesia’s place in the semifinals with a perfect nine points from three matches. ***