Indonesia's U-17 team secured a dramatic 1-0 win over China in their opening Group B match at the AFC U-17 Asian Cup 2026 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Keanu Sanjaya scored the lone goal in the 87th minute. The result places Indonesia second in the provisional standings.
Group B matches of the AFC U-17 Asian Cup 2026 kicked off on Tuesday (5/5) at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Indonesia's U-17 team, coached by Kurniawan Dwi Yulianto, faced China at Pitch A. The Garuda Muda squad played disciplined, with a solid defense led by captain Mathew Baker and goalkeeper Mike Rajasa.
In the first half, China dominated but failed to break through Indonesia's defense. Indonesia had a chance in the 43rd minute via Chico Jericho, but it was not converted. In the second half, Indonesia's 67th-minute goal by Farik Rizqi was disallowed for handball. Victory came in the 87th minute, with Keanu Sanjaya converting a long pass from Mathew Baker into a low shot past goalkeeper Qin Ziniu.
In the other match, Japan came back to beat Qatar 3-1, with goals from Kakeru Saito and a brace by Maki Kitahara after falling behind to Ayokunle Tokode's strike. Japan tops the Group B standings on goal difference, with Indonesia second on 3 points. China and Qatar have none.
Next matches are scheduled for this Saturday: Indonesia vs Qatar, Japan vs China. Wins will secure quarter-final spots and qualification for the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2026 in Qatar.
