Deli Serdang, N. Sumatra. Indonesia’s U-17 national team were forced to settle for second place in the 2025 Independence Cup after falling 2-1 to Mali in Monday night’s final at North Sumatra Main Stadium.

Mali secured the title with first-half goals from Zoumana Balo in the 21st minute and Seydou Dembele in the 33rd. Indonesia pulled one back through Fadli Alberto Hengga in the 36th but were unable to find an equalizer despite spirited play in front of 21,991 supporters.

The West Africans set the tone early with their speed and crisp organization. Balo’s opener came from a Samba Konare cross that clipped the crossbar before bouncing over the line. Dembele then doubled Mali’s advantage with a powerful strike from a distance that slipped past goalkeeper Dafa Setiawarman.

Indonesia responded swiftly. Hengga headed in Fabio Azkairawan’s long throw to halve the deficit, sending the crowd into a roar. But Mali tightened their defense, denying the hosts further chances.

The second half saw Mali continue to dictate possession, though Indonesia’s back line held firm to prevent additional damage. Garuda Muda attempted to hit back on the counter, but Mali’s relentless pressing smothered their build-up play.

When the final whistle blew, the scoreline remained unchanged, sealing Mali’s triumph and leaving Indonesia with runner-up honors.

The result capped a tournament where Indonesia showed promise but fell just short against a physically strong and tactically sharp Mali side.

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