Indonesia's U-17 national team endured a crushing 0-7 defeat against China's U-17 side in an international friendly at Indomilk Arena, Tangerang, on February 8, 2026. China dominated the match with seven goals, while Indonesia failed to score despite creating some chances. The result serves as a wake-up call for the young Garuda ahead of the 2026 AFF U-17 Cup.
The international friendly between Indonesia's U-17 national team and China's U-17 side took place at Indomilk Arena in Tangerang on Sunday evening, February 8, 2026, with kick-off at 9:00 PM WIB. The young Garuda, led by interim coach Nova Arianto, conceded a resounding 0-7 defeat.
China started aggressively. In the 15th minute, Zhou Songyuan opened the scoring by breaking through Indonesia's defense. Nine minutes later, Wang Heyi made it 2-0. The first half grew tougher for Indonesia as Zhou Songyuan netted his second in the 42nd minute, followed by Shuai Weihao's goal in the 44th, capitalizing on a scramble in front of goalkeeper Noah Leo.
In the second half, Nova Arianto rotated players to stem the pressure, but China maintained dominance. The fifth goal came from Weigou in the 53rd minute due to a defensive blunder by Indonesia. Substitute Zhang Bolin extended the lead to 6-0 in the 74th minute. In injury time, Ailikamu Yilihong sealed China's victory with the seventh goal in the 92nd minute.
Despite the heavy loss, Indonesia U-17 created some opportunities, but poor finishing and rushed decisions prevented any goals. Indonesia's lineup: Noah Leo; Putu Eka Yana, Shoyyo Himawan, Zidane Raditya; Dava Yunna, Fardan Farras, Farrel Luckyta, Handri Dimas, Miraj Rizky, Peres Akwila; Mierza Firjatullah.
Differences in technical quality, game tempo, and team maturity were key notes. This match acts as an early warning for Indonesia ahead of the 2026 AFF U-17 Cup, highlighting needs for improvements in player selection, game organization, and international-level mentality.
