Indonesia held to a draw by Laos in the U23 Asian qualifiers

U23 Indonesia caused a big disappointment.

Right from the first minutes at Gelora Delta Stadium, U23 Indonesia controlled the game and continuously attacked. However, the solid defense of U23 Laos caused many difficulties for the home team. In the 6th minute, U23 Indonesia almost opened the scoring after a chaotic situation in the penalty area, but the goal was disallowed due to Robi Darwis' offside.

Throughout the first half, despite having the majority of ball control, U23 Indonesia could not create any truly dangerous opportunities. The attacks of U23 Indonesia were neutralized by the two-layer defense of U23 Laos. Even their signature attack of strong throw-ins into the penalty area was blocked by the Lao players.

In the second half, U23 Indonesia still maintained great pressure, but their attacks lacked sharpness. In the 72nd minute, Hokky Caraka had a chance to face the U23 Laos goalkeeper, but his shot was inaccurate.

The match ended in a 0-0 draw, making it more difficult for U23 Indonesia to advance. With the presence of U23 Korea in Group J, if they cannot win against U23 Laos and U23 Macau, Indonesia's chances of advancing to the next round are very low.

According to the format of the 2026 AFC U23 qualifiers, only the top team in the group will directly advance, while the second-placed team must compete for four spots out of the 10 second-placed teams in the group.

Source: https://znews.vn/indonesia-bi-lao-cam-hoa-o-vong-loai-u23-chau-a-post1582305.html