SEAToday.com, Jakarta - On (12/12/2024), Indonesia’s 3-3 draw with Laos in the ASEAN Cup at Manahan Stadium, Solo, raised concerns about Shin Tae-yong’s frequent player rotations. Football analyst Kesit Budi Handoyo highlighted the lack of consistency in the starting eleven as a key factor in the disappointing result. 

“The lineup against Myanmar’s second half was solid. It’s puzzling why major changes were made,” he remarked as quoted from Antara.

Indonesia struggled despite playing in front of home supporters, conceding three goals to Laos, the lowest-ranked team in Group B. Kesit pointed out that Shin benched reliable players like Asnawi and Dethan, disrupting the team’s rhythm. 

“This draw feels like a loss, especially since Laos isn’t as strong as Myanmar,” he added.

The match saw Indonesia equalizing twice in the first half before briefly leading 3-2, thanks to captain Muhammad Ferrari’s double. 

However, Laos capitalized on Indonesia’s ten-man disadvantage, following Marselino Ferdinan’s red card, to secure the draw in the 77th minute. “Our performance was not at the level expected for a home game,” Kesit criticized.

Vietnam, Indonesia’s next opponent, looms as a significant challenge after their commanding 4-1 win over Laos earlier in the tournament. 

Kesit warned, “If we continue like this, it’ll be tough against Vietnam. A loss there will leave us in a precarious position.” He emphasized the need for better tactical decisions and a stable lineup to maintain Indonesia’s campaign.

Despite the draw, Indonesia leads Group B with four points from two matches, narrowly ahead of Vietnam, who have played one game less. The next match will determine whether Shin’s squad can recover and secure their path to the semifinals.

Writer: Fariz Ahmad Luthfi