Indonesia Through to Asian Cup Quarterfinals After 19-Year Absence

Indonesia defeated Malaysia 2-1 in a thrilling match

Both goals were scored by Marc Klok in the second half

The Indonesia national football team has qualified for the quarterfinals of the 2023 AFC Asian Cup after a 19-year absence. The team defeated Malaysia 2-1 in a thrilling match on Sunday, January 22, 2023, at the Al Maktoum Stadium in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Both goals for Indonesia were scored by midfielder Marc Klok in the second half. The first goal came in the 50th minute, when Klok headed home a cross from Asnawi Mangkualam. The second goal came in the 85th minute, when Klok converted a penalty after Malaysia defender Dion Cools was adjudged to have fouled Egy Maulana Vikri.

Malaysia had taken the lead in the 13th minute through a goal from Faisal Halim, but Indonesia fought back and deservedly earned the victory.

This is Indonesia's first appearance in the Asian Cup quarterfinals since 2004, when they lost 1-0 to China. The team will now face hosts Japan in the quarterfinals on Friday, January 27, 2023.

Indonesia's success in the Asian Cup is a testament to the progress that the team has made in recent years. The team is now ranked 151st in the FIFA World Rankings, up from 179th in 2018.

The team's success is also due in part to the work of coach Shin Tae-yong, who has been in charge since 2019. Shin has instilled a new sense of belief in the team, and he has helped to develop a number of young players.

Indonesia's qualification for the Asian Cup quarterfinals is a major achievement for the team and for the country. The team will now be hoping to make a deep run in the tournament and to continue to improve its FIFA ranking.