Global Exposure Shapes Indonesia’s Young Football Talents in Japan

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – Indonesian youth football team gained invaluable international experience after advancing to the round of 16 at the U12 Junior Soccer World Challenge 2026 in Chiba, Japan.

While their journey ended with a 0–3 defeat to Mazda GB FC from Laos, the tournament offered young players a rare opportunity to compete against elite academies from around the world.

The team’s participation followed their success at the Agung Podomoro Land Cup Southeast Asia Qualifier in Jakarta last June, where Bandung Legend earned the right to represent Indonesia.

Competing under the banner of Agung Podomoro Land Indonesia, Bandung Legend secured three victories in the group stage before progressing to the knockout round.

Grouped with Hokkaido Consadole Sapporo U12 EAST, Ageo Asahi FC, and Nara Club Junior, the Indonesian side showcased resilience and skill before bowing out in the round of 16.

Agung Podomoro Land President Director Bacelius Ruru emphasized that the achievement was more about exposure than results.

“Playing in a competition that brings together 40 teams, including youth academies from major global clubs, provides experiences that cannot be gained solely through domestic training," he said on Friday, August 28, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

"The players learn different styles, tempos, intensities, mentalities, and football cultures from various countries,” he added.

The tournament, which uses an 11 vs 11 format, featured renowned youth academies such as FC Barcelona Academy Japan Selection, Gamba Osaka Junior, Kashima Antlers Junior, Urawa Red Diamonds Junior, and Cerezo Osaka U12.

Ruru noted that the journey from Jakarta to Japan highlights the importance of collaboration in giving Indonesian talents wider access to international competition.

“Every chance to play at the international level is a learning process. We hope this experience builds confidence and motivation for the players to keep growing, while becoming part of their journey in chasing future dreams,” he concluded.

The U12 Junior Soccer World Challenge is one of Asia’s most prestigious youth tournaments, with alumni including Barcelona stars Lamine Yamal and Pau Curbarsi, who recently helped Spain win the 2026 FIFA World Cup. European giants such as FC Barcelona, Manchester City, Liverpool, and Arsenal have also sent their academies to compete in past editions. ***