Indonesian media shocked by early elimination.

Indonesian media expressed disappointment after their U22 team was eliminated in the group stage of the 33rd SEA Games.

U22 Indonesia (in red shirts) were eliminated in the group stage.

In their final group stage match on the evening of December 12th, the Indonesian U22 team won 3-1 against the Myanmar U22 team. However, this result was still not enough for coach Indra Sjafri's team to qualify for the semi-finals.

U22 Indonesia has the same goal difference of +1 as U22 Malaysia in Group B but has scored fewer goals than their opponent (3 compared to 4). Thus, the four teams participating in the semi-finals of SEA Games 33 are determined to be U22 Vietnam, U22 Thailand, U22 Philippines and U22 Malaysia.

The result caused pain to the Indonesian media. The newspaper Bola commented: "A tragedy for our national football." According to the newspaper, the Indonesian U22 players tried their best but were unable to score another goal to secure a place in the semi-finals.

Meanwhile, CNN Indonesia argues that the team's poor preparation cost them dearly right from the group stage. The absence of key midfielder Marselino Ferdinand due to a hamstring injury disrupted coach Indra Sjafri's plans, significantly weakening the Indonesian U22 team.

Kompas commented that the Indonesian U22 team exited the tournament too early and failed to defend the gold medal they had won at the 32nd SEA Games. This was the team's initial goal, but the Indonesian Football Federation later lowered the target to reduce pressure.

In the semi-finals of the 33rd SEA Games, Vietnam U22 will face the Philippines U22, while host nation Thailand U22 will clash with Malaysia U22.

Thailand U22's resounding victory: On the evening of December 11th, Thailand U22 showcased their superior strength with a 3-0 win against Singapore, comfortably securing their place in the semi-finals of the SEA Games 33.

Source: https://znews.vn/bao-indonesia-soc-khi-bi-loai-som-post1610967.html