Korea Republic, champions in 1986 and 2002, finished runners-up to Japan at the AFC U17 Asian Cup Thailand 2023. The East Asians are making their 16th appearance after topping their qualifying group unbeaten.
While his side may look better on paper, head coach Back Ki-tae is not downplaying his opponents, especially with tickets to the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 at stake.
“Indonesia are one of the strongest teams in Southeast Asia, and their strengths are a well-organised defensive balance and individual attacking techniques,” he said. “So we will have to prepare our game accordingly.
“Our playing principles and game model align with Korea’s technical football philosophy, Made in Korea, that emphasises fast, fearless, and focused play. Through this, we are shaping our U17 team’s own proactive and dynamic style.”
Indonesia, whose best result was fourth in 1990, did not qualify for the last edition and have only advanced twice past the group stage in their previous six appearances at the Finals.
Head coach Nova Arianto will bank on his players reproducing the form that saw them finish unbeaten in the Qualifiers without conceding a single goal – a result that saw his side advance as one of the best five runners-up.
“Korea Republic is undoubtedly the toughest team in our group,” he said. “But we are prepared mentally, technically and strategically, and I hope the players give their all in our first match.”
