Indra Sjafri has been a prominent figure in Indonesian football for many years, particularly in his role as the head coach of the national under-23 team, also known as Garuda Muda. Under his guidance, the team has achieved significant success at the ASEAN and Asian levels, coming close to qualifying for the FIFA World Cup.
Sjafri’s journey with the national team began in 2017, when he was appointed as the head coach of the under-19 team. In his first major tournament with the team, the AFC U-19 Championship in 2018, Sjafri led Indonesia to the quarterfinals, a remarkable achievement considering the tough competition they faced.
Following his success with the under-19 team, Sjafri was appointed as the head coach of the under-23 team in 2019. Under his leadership, the team made significant strides in the ASEAN and Asian football scene. In the 2019 Southeast Asian Games, the team reached the final, where they narrowly lost to Vietnam in a penalty shootout. Despite the defeat, the team’s performance was praised by fans and analysts alike.
In the 2020 AFC U-23 Championship, Sjafri’s team put on an impressive display, finishing as runners-up after a narrow defeat to South Korea in the final. The team’s performance in the tournament was lauded for their attacking style of play and fighting spirit.
One of the highlights of Sjafri’s tenure with the national team was the team’s near qualification for the FIFA World Cup. In the 2020 AFC U-23 Championship, Indonesia finished as one of the top four teams in the tournament, narrowly missing out on a spot in the Olympic Games. The team’s performance in the tournament was a testament to Sjafri’s coaching abilities and the talent of the young Indonesian players.
Despite the disappointment of missing out on the World Cup, Sjafri’s achievements with the national team have not gone unnoticed. His tactical acumen, man-management skills, and ability to develop young talent have earned him praise from fans and football experts alike. As he continues to lead the national team, Indonesian football fans can look forward to more success and exciting performances under his guidance.
