RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia’s national team showcased the impact of strategic substitutions as John Herdman’s changes transformed a tense contest into a decisive 3–0 victory over Timor Leste in their Group A clash at the AFF Cup 2026 in Chonburi, Thailand, on Friday, July 31.

The Garuda squad struggled through a goalless first half despite gaining a numerical advantage when a Timor Leste defender was sent off in the 21st minute, Antara reported.

Herdman’s halftime adjustments proved pivotal, with Shayne Pattynama and Dony Pamungkas combining for the breakthrough goal in the 74th minute.

Just four minutes later, Thom Haye doubled the lead with a precise free kick, before Mitchell Baker added his fourth goal of the tournament, Southeast Asia's premier men's international football championship, in the 81st minute, assisted by Ragnar Oratmangoen.

The substitutions injected fluidity and sharpness into Indonesia’s attack, breaking Timor Leste’s resistance.

The win lifted Indonesia to the top of Group A with six points from two matches, edging Singapore on goal difference (+7 to +3). Vietnam sits third with three points, while Cambodia and Timor Leste remain winless.

Indonesia will next face Vietnam at Pakansari Stadium in Bogor on Monday, August 3, in a match that could prove decisive for group supremacy. ***