Indonesia Wins Historic FIFA ASEAN Cup After Penalty Shootout

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia carved its name into football history by winning the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026, defeating Thailand 4‑2 on penalties after a dramatic 2‑2 draw at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Jakarta, on Monday night, October 5.

The final unfolded in gripping fashion. Indonesia struck first in the 84th minute when Dean James’s free kick deflected off a Thai defender into the net, moments after Thailand had been reduced to 10 men following Nicholas Mickelson’s second yellow card.

Just two minutes later, Thailand equalized through Iklas Sanron, forcing extra time.

In the 111th minute, Peeradol Chamratsamee put Thailand ahead, silencing the home crowd. But Indonesia responded swiftly, with Elkan Baggott leveling the score at 2‑2 three minutes later.

The match went to penalties, where Kevin Diks, James, Baggott, and Shayne Pattynama all converted for Indonesia. Goalkeeper Emil Audero denied Nattaphon Sayriya, while Sarach Yooyen’s effort hit the post, sealing Indonesia’s victory.

Head coach John Herdman hailed the triumph as “a proud moment for Indonesia, the nation’s first‑ever international FIFA trophy,” praising his players’ resilience and the unwavering support of fans throughout the tournament.

Defender Calvin Verdonk called the victory “a valuable boost” ahead of the AFC Asian Cup 2027 in Saudi Arabia, where Indonesia will face Thailand again in Group F alongside Qatar and Japan.

“We have chances against Thailand and Qatar, and even against Japan, though they are at another level,” he said, as quoted by Antara.

Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, who witnessed the final, described the win as “historic” and a symbol of Indonesia’s fighting spirit. He joined FIFA President Gianni Infantino in presenting the trophy to captain Kevin Diks, after Indonesian scorers Dean James and Elkan Baggott forced the shootout.

PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir lauded the team’s determination and stressed the need for continued improvement. “Thailand is a very strong side. This is a valuable lesson as we prepare for the Asian Cup and, long term, the 2030 World Cup,” he said.

The victory marks Indonesia’s first major international football title in 35 years, igniting hopes of a new era for the Garuda squad. ***