U17 Indonesia Coach Highlights Issues Ahead of World Cup Opener

Coach Nova Arianto acknowledged a weakness in the U17 Indonesia team before their opening match against Zambia at the 2025 U17 World Cup.

In the lead-up to the 2025 U17 World Cup, the U17 Indonesia squad has gone through a series of friendly matches against other tournament participants, and the Southeast Asian representatives failed to secure any wins against Ivory Coast and Panama.

During the pre-match press conference, Coach Nova Arianto admitted that U17 Indonesia’s physical condition is somewhat inferior compared to other teams, but he encouraged his players and affirmed the team’s aim to achieve a positive result on their opening day.

Specifically, he stated: "Mental strength is something I pay special attention to. Physically, it’s clear we are at a disadvantage when facing Ivory Coast and Panama, as they have superior stamina and size. However, I emphasized to the players that only with strong willpower and spirit can we compete effectively.

Without solid mental toughness, it will be very difficult to face teams like Zambia, Brazil, or Honduras. I just hope the players never feel afraid, because results are always unpredictable. The most important thing is to step onto the field with determination and give their best effort."

As mentioned, the 45-year-old coach places great importance on the players’ mental and psychological state. He understands that the U17 Indonesia players are still very young and need careful care and support in this area.

One key issue he focuses on is social media use. He has instructed the players to minimize their social media activity during the U17 World Cup.

The former Indonesian international added: "I am very pleased with the players’ discipline regarding social media use. I have noticed they have not posted anything to maintain maximum focus on the World Cup.

We also have a team of psychological experts supporting the players to prepare mentally before the tournament. Because no matter how perfect the tactics are, they won’t be effective if the players lack mental stability."

U17 Indonesia will start their World Cup campaign with the opening match against Zambia in Group H, held at Stadium 7 of the Aspire Zone (Doha, Qatar) at 22:45 on November 4. Then, the team will face Brazil on November 7 at 22:45 and Honduras on November 10 at 21:45.

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