Jakarta – The Indonesian national futsal team has reached a historic milestone, qualifying for the final of the AFC Futsal Asian Cup. Head coach Hector Souto has repeatedly emphasized that he is not the hero of this achievement.
Indonesia defeated Japan 5-3 in a thrilling semi-final match that went to extra time on Thursday night, . The Garuda squad twice came from behind but ultimately secured the victory.
Coach Souto was visibly emotional after the match, unable to contain his tears of joy. The Spanish coach was seen singing the national anthem, “Tanah Airku,” with the players on the field.
Souto previously led the Indonesian national futsal team to victory at the AFF Futsal Championship and secured a gold medal at the SEA Games. He has consistently credited the players and the fans for the team’s success, deflecting any personal praise.
Now, Souto is again reiterating that Indonesia’s advancement to the AFC Futsal Asian Cup final is not due to him, but rather to the dedication of the players and the unwavering support of the Indonesian people.
“I didn’t make history, the team made history. I’m starting to get tired of being called a history maker,” Souto stated firmly in the post-match press conference.
“There was also support from the players in the stands and at home. This success is due to the cooperation of everyone,” he added.
“The fans need to understand that winning and losing must be together, of course we will try our best,” he continued.
The Indonesian national futsal team will now face defending champions Iran on Saturday, , at 7:00 PM WIB. Iran is seeking their 14th title, while Indonesia is striving for their first.
This final represents a monumental occasion for Indonesian futsal. While Iran boasts a dominant history in the competition, Indonesia’s journey to the final, fueled by home advantage and a cohesive team spirit under Souto’s guidance, has captivated the nation. The victory over Japan, a team known for its tactical discipline and technical prowess, demonstrated Indonesia’s growing maturity and resilience on the continental stage.
The match against Japan was a tense affair, requiring extra time to determine a winner. Indonesia’s ability to respond to Japan’s challenges twice during the game highlighted their mental fortitude. The scenes of celebration following the final whistle, with Souto joining the players in singing the national anthem, underscored the deep connection between the team and its supporters.
Souto’s impact on the Indonesian futsal program has been transformative. Since taking the helm, he has instilled a winning mentality and fostered a strong team culture. His emphasis on collective effort and his willingness to share the credit with his players have resonated with the team and the fans alike. His contract was extended through , a testament to the faith the Indonesia Futsal Federation (FFI) has in his leadership.
The upcoming clash against Iran will be a significant test for Indonesia. Iran’s experience and pedigree in futsal are undeniable. However, Indonesia’s recent successes and the momentum they have built throughout the tournament suggest they are capable of challenging the established order. The support of the home crowd will undoubtedly be a crucial factor in their quest for a historic victory.
The AFC Futsal Asian Cup has already been a resounding success for Indonesia, regardless of the outcome of the final. Their qualification for the quarter-finals, followed by their stunning victory over Japan, has elevated the profile of futsal in the country and inspired a new generation of players. The team’s performance has demonstrated the potential of Indonesian futsal on the international stage.
Souto’s continued insistence that he is not the driving force behind the team’s success is a testament to his humility and his commitment to fostering a collaborative environment. He understands that the achievements of the team are the result of the collective efforts of the players, the coaching staff and the fans. This approach has created a strong sense of unity and purpose within the team, which has been instrumental in their success.