U17 Indonesia calls up 3 naturalized players after being eliminated by Vietnam in the Southeast Asian tournament

Following their premature elimination from the 2026 Southeast Asian U17 Championship, Indonesia's U17 squad is formulating plans to bolster its lineup as they aim for the forthcoming Asian U17 Finals.

The 0-0 draw against Vietnam U17 in the final match of Group A resulted in the host team losing their chance to secure a semifinal berth. Not only was this a shocking outcome, but the match also exposed numerous weaknesses in Indonesia U17's gameplay, particularly in their offensive organization and defensive stability.

According to reports from Bola, immediately after the tournament concluded, the coaching staff of the archipelago nation swiftly initiated a restructuring plan. One notable move is the addition of Indonesian-descent players currently competing abroad, aiming to enhance the team's overall quality.

Specifically, coach Kurniawan Dwi Yulianto confirmed that Indonesia U17 will incorporate three naturalized players in preparation for their Asian campaign. The names mentioned include defender Matt Baker, currently with Melbourne City FC, along with two goalkeepers: Noah Leo Duvert (playing for Bali United) and Mike Rajasa Hoppenbrouwers, a member of FC Utrecht's academy.

This move is expected to help Indonesia U17 address the weaknesses that were revealed, especially in defense and the goalkeeper position. Increasing competition within the squad is also seen as a crucial factor for this young team to improve its professional standards.

After the regional tournament setback, Indonesia U17 is clearly aiming for a new look. With the addition of naturalized players, the archipelago's team hopes to create surprises at the Asian U17 Finals, where they aim to advance further than their previous performances.

At the 2026 Asian U17 Finals held in Saudi Arabia, Indonesia U17 is placed in Group B alongside Japan, China, and Qatar.