Struick Leads the Line as Indonesia U-23 Faces Mali in Crucial Test Ahead of SEA Games 2025

Jakarta – Indonesia’s U-23 national team faced Mali’s U-23 squad in a friendly match held at the Pakansari Stadium in Bogor Regency, marking a critical phase in their preparations for the upcoming 2025 SEA Games. Head coach Indra Sjafri named a starting lineup featuring several key players, including Rafael Struick, Ivar Jenner, and Mauro Zijlstra, signaling a clear intent to assess their capabilities against a strong African side.

The two-match series, scheduled for November 15th and 18th, provides invaluable opportunities for Sjafri to fine-tune his squad and identify potential areas for improvement before the regional tournament. The decision to host Mali, a team known for its physical prowess and tactical discipline, underscores the coaching staff’s commitment to rigorous preparation.

The starting lineup for Indonesia U-23 featured Cahya Supriadi in goal, with a defensive line consisting of Ananda Raehan, Dony Tri, Frengky Missa, Kadek Arel, and Kakang Rudianto. The midfield comprised Raka, Ivar Jenner, and Mauro Zijlstra, while Rafael Struick and Rahmat Arjuna led the attack. This blend of domestic talent and players with European experience reflects Sjafri’s strategy of combining youth and experience within the squad.

Mali’s U-23 team arrived in Indonesia with a squad boasting several players affiliated with prominent European clubs. Issa Traore, associated with Bayer Leverkusen, and Sekou Kone, linked to Manchester United, were among the starters, highlighting the quality and depth of the Malian side. The presence of these players offered a significant challenge to the Indonesian team, providing a realistic simulation of the level of competition they can expect at the SEA Games.

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The match itself was a tactical affair, with both teams demonstrating organized approaches. Indonesia aimed to utilize the pace and creativity of Struick and Zijlstra in attack, while Mali focused on their physical strength and counter-attacking capabilities. The Indonesian defense, led by Kakang Rudianto and Dony Tri, faced a stern test against Mali’s forwards, who consistently threatened with their direct running and aerial presence.

Ivar Jenner, playing in central midfield, was tasked with controlling the tempo of the game and distributing passes to the attacking players. His ability to dictate play and provide defensive cover was crucial in maintaining Indonesia’s shape and preventing Mali from dominating possession.

Rafael Struick, leading the line, showcased his versatility and work rate, constantly pressing the Malian defense and creating opportunities for his teammates. His movement off the ball and ability to link up with the midfield provided a focal point for Indonesia’s attacks.

The inclusion of Mauro Zijlstra in the starting lineup also proved to be a significant tactical decision. Zijlstra’s technical ability and vision added another dimension to Indonesia’s attacking play, allowing them to unlock the Malian defense with intricate passing combinations.

The match provided a valuable learning experience for the Indonesian players, exposing them to the challenges of facing a physically strong and tactically astute opponent. The experience gained from this encounter will be crucial in their development as they prepare for the SEA Games.

Indonesia’s recent form has been mixed, with inconsistent performances in previous friendly matches. However, the team has shown glimpses of their potential, particularly in their attacking play. The coaching staff has been working diligently to improve the team’s defensive organization and tactical discipline, recognizing the importance of a solid foundation for success in the SEA Games.

Mali, on the other hand, has a strong track record in youth football, consistently producing talented players who go on to play in Europe’s top leagues. Their U-23 team is known for its physical strength, tactical discipline, and ability to compete at the highest level.

The SEA Games 2025 will be a significant test for the Indonesian U-23 team, as they aim to improve on their previous performances in the tournament. The competition will be fierce, with several strong teams from Southeast Asia vying for the gold medal. Indonesia will need to be at their best to achieve their goals.

Indonesia’s U-23 team has seen a number of changes in recent years, with a focus on developing young talent and integrating players with European experience. This approach reflects the coaching staff’s commitment to building a team that can compete at the highest level.

The selection of the final squad for the SEA Games will be a difficult task for coach Indra Sjafri, as he has a wealth of talent to choose from. The players who demonstrate the most commitment, discipline, and tactical understanding will ultimately be selected to represent Indonesia in the tournament.

The two-match series against Mali provides a crucial opportunity for the players to showcase their abilities and impress the coaching staff. The performances in these matches will undoubtedly play a significant role in determining the final squad for the SEA Games.

The match also highlighted the importance of international exposure for young Indonesian players. Facing opponents from different footballing cultures helps them to develop their game and adapt to different styles of play.

The coaching staff will analyze the match footage and identify areas for improvement, both individually and collectively. The focus will be on refining the team’s tactical approach, improving their defensive organization, and enhancing their attacking play.

The support of the Indonesian fans will be crucial in the lead-up to the SEA Games. The team will need the backing of the nation as they prepare for this important tournament.

Indonesia’s footballing authorities have invested heavily in youth development programs in recent years, with the aim of producing a new generation of talented players. These programs are designed to provide young players with the best possible training and opportunities to develop their skills.

The success of the U-23 team in the SEA Games will be a major boost for Indonesian football, inspiring young players and raising the profile of the sport in the country.

The match against Mali was not just a friendly; it was a crucial step in Indonesia’s preparations for the SEA Games. The experience gained from this encounter will be invaluable as they continue their journey towards the tournament.

The final score of the match is less important than the lessons learned and the progress made. The coaching staff will be focused on using this experience to improve the team and prepare them for the challenges ahead.

Indonesia’s U-23 team has the potential to achieve great things in the SEA Games. With hard work, dedication, and the support of the nation, they can compete with the best teams in Southeast Asia and bring home the gold medal.

The match against Mali also served as a platform for assessing the fitness levels of the players. The coaching staff monitored their physical condition closely, ensuring that they are in peak condition for the SEA Games.

The tactical flexibility of the team was also tested in the match. The coaching staff experimented with different formations and strategies, allowing them to adapt to different situations and opponents.

The mental strength of the players was also put to the test. The match against Mali was a high-pressure environment, and the players had to demonstrate their ability to cope with the pressure and perform to the best of their abilities.

The match also highlighted the importance of teamwork and communication. The players had to work together effectively to defend against Mali’s attacks and create scoring opportunities.

The coaching staff will continue to work on these aspects of the game in the lead-up to the SEA Games, ensuring that the team is well-prepared for the challenges ahead.

The match against Mali was a valuable learning experience for the coaching staff as well. They were able to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the team and identify areas for improvement.

The coaching staff will use this information to refine their training methods and develop a tactical plan that will give Indonesia the best chance of success in the SEA Games.

The match against Mali was a reminder of the importance of preparation and attention to detail. The coaching staff will leave no stone unturned in their efforts to prepare the team for the tournament.

The match against Mali was a testament to the passion and dedication of the Indonesian players. They gave their all on the field, demonstrating their commitment to representing their country.

The match against Mali was a source of pride for the Indonesian fans. They cheered on their team with enthusiasm, creating a vibrant atmosphere in the stadium.

The match against Mali was a step forward for Indonesian football. It showed that Indonesia has the potential to compete with the best teams in the region.

The match against Mali was a reason for optimism. It gave the Indonesian fans hope that their team can achieve great things in the SEA Games.

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Ahmad Zein Salamo: Ahmad Zein Salamo is a dedicated football journalist at Sports News Break, covering the global game with a sharp eye for detail and passion for storytelling. With years of experience following Europe’s top leagues and international tournaments, he delivers insightful analysis, match previews, and breaking news with journalistic integrity and depth.

His reporting combines tactical understanding with a human perspective, highlighting not only the drama on the pitch but also the stories that shape the sport beyond it. From Champions League nights to grassroots football, Ahmad’s work reflects a true love for the beautiful game and a commitment to bringing readers closer to the action.