Following Malaysia, Indonesian media surprises with scenario to defeat Vietnam

Despite difficulties after losing to Malaysia, Indonesian media still outlines a path for their team to overcome U17 Vietnam and maintain hope for the semifinals.

The defeat against Malaysia has placed U17 Indonesia in a difficult position at the 2026 Southeast Asia U17 Championship. According to CNNIndonesia, the current group standings mean the island nation's team no longer has full control over their fate, though they still hold a chance to reverse the situation. After two matches, they have only 3 points thanks to a 4-0 victory over Timor Leste.

Meanwhile, U17 Vietnam is leading with a perfect 6 points, following decisive wins of 4-0 against Malaysia and 10-0 against Timor Leste. Malaysia also has 3 points, thanks to a 1-0 win over Indonesia. Indonesian media emphasizes that the door to the semifinals remains open, but the prerequisite condition lies in the direct match against U17 Vietnam in the final round.

In the decisive match, Indonesia will face Vietnam, while Malaysia only has to meet Timor Leste. On paper, Malaysia is rated higher and likely to secure all 3 points to raise their total to 6. This means Indonesia must defeat Vietnam if they want to avoid early elimination.

In the case Malaysia wins, the island nation's representative not only needs 3 points but also must win with a sufficiently large margin against Vietnam. Then, rankings will be determined by a mini standings among the three teams Indonesia, Malaysia, and Vietnam – a factor Indonesian media particularly emphasizes.

An example is given: if Indonesia wins 3-0, they would have a goal difference of +2 (3-1), Vietnam would have +1 (4-3), while Malaysia would be -3 (1-4). Under this scenario, Indonesia would rise to lead the group and secure a spot in the semifinals, despite having previously lost to Malaysia.

Nevertheless, Indonesian media also points out a more "comfortable" path: Indonesia defeats Vietnam, while Malaysia does not win against Timor Leste. In that case, Indonesia would take the top spot due to direct head-to-head results, given both teams have 6 points. This is considered a more feasible scenario, but still depends on many factors beyond their control.