Milestone for Indonesia: Progresses to Asian Cup Knockout Stage for the First Time

Indonesia secured a historic spot in the Asian Cup’s round of 16, advancing as one of the best third-placed teams after Oman failed to beat Kyrgyzstan. Indonesia with three points, clinched the fourth position among third-placed teams trailing behind Jordan, Palestine and Syria. This marks Indonesia’s first progression past the Asian Cup group stage in their fifth appearance.

They join Thailand as the only two Southeast Asian teams to reach the round of 16 in this year’s tournament. In the crucial Oman vs. Kyrgyzstan match, Oman took an early lead but Kyrgyzstan equalized in the 80th minute, eliminating Oman from the tournament. Indonesia is set to face group B winner Australia in the round of 16 on January 28.