DELISERDANG | INDATANEWS.COM – Indonesia's U19 national team continued their impressive run at the 2026 AFF U19 Championship with a commanding 3–0 victory over Timor-Leste on Thursday (June 4, 2026). The match took place at the Utama Sumatera Utara Stadium in Deliserdang, where coach Nova Arianto's side once again delivered a disciplined and dominant performance.
With this result, "Garuda Muda" maintains a perfect record after also opening their campaign with a 3–0 win over Myanmar. Two wins from two matches place Indonesia in a strong position to advance to the next round, although a decisive final group match against Vietnam still awaits.
Early Control, Patient Breakthrough
From the opening whistle, Indonesia dictated the tempo with high pressing and aggressive attacking play, forcing Timor-Leste deep into their own half. Despite their clear dominance, the hosts initially struggled to break down a compact defensive block.
Indonesia created several chances in the first half but had to wait until just before the break to find the breakthrough. Reno Salampesy eventually opened the scoring, giving Indonesia a deserved lead and easing the pressure after a tight opening spell.
MATCH OBSERVED FROM THE STANDS: Governor
Bobby Nasution watches celebrations after Indonesia's 3–0 victory over Timor-Leste at the 2026 AFF U19 Championship in Utama Sumatera Utara Stadium. (PHOTO: Doc. North Sumatra Communication And Informatics Office)
Second-Half Surge Seals the WinAfter the restart, Indonesia raised the intensity and moved the ball with greater purpose. Their improved structure and sustained possession saw Timor-Leste increasingly pinned back.
The second half produced two additional goals to confirm the victory. Local talent Irpan Siregar, one of North Sumatra's standout players, extended the lead before Arkhan Kaka added the third to complete a convincing 3–0 win.
Indonesia also maintained another clean sheet, highlighting their defensive stability throughout the tournament so far.
Political Presence and Rising ExpectationsNorth Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution attended the match in person, offering direct support from the stands alongside Deputy Governor Surya. Their presence added further motivation for the young squad.
"Now we face a much tougher match against Vietnam. We must improve even further,"
Bobby Nasution said after the game.
Head coach Nova Arianto echoed the sentiment, praising his team's performance while warning that Vietnam would pose a far greater tactical and mental challenge.
STADIUM ATMOSPHERE: Enthusiastic fans celebrate
Indonesia U19's second win at the 2026 AFF U19 Championship. (PHOTO: Doc. North Sumatra Communication And Informatics Office)
Vietnam Showdown Looms LargeWith six points from two matches, Indonesia sit in a strong position, but the final group-stage clash against Vietnam will determine the group leader.
Vietnam have also impressed in the tournament and currently top the group on goal difference, turning the upcoming encounter into a virtual decider for first place in Group A.
Expectations are rising at home as supporters anticipate another strong performance from "Garuda Muda" on home soil.
Strong Regional SupportThe match also drew significant attention from regional leaders, with widespread support from the North Sumatra provincial government underscoring the importance of youth football development in Indonesia.
Thousands of fans created an electric atmosphere in the stadium, pushing the team forward throughout the 90 minutes.
(IDNC)REPORTER: Darmailawati | EDITOR: Fik Sagala