Jakarta. The Indonesia U-23 national football team is set to face a formidable challenge in their opening match at the Asian Cup U-23 as they meet hosts Qatar on Monday.

Playing at the Jassim bin Hamad Stadium in Al Rayyan, Indonesia, under the guidance of coach Shin Tae-yong, will take on a motivated Qatar side eager to secure victory in their opening fixture. The match is scheduled to kick off at 06:30 p.m. local time or 10:30 Jakarta time. 

A victory in the opening game could significantly boost hopes of progressing to the next round. Qatar's senior national team has displayed impressive performances on the Asian stage. In the recent Asian Cup championship, Qatar clinched the title by defeating Jordan 3-1 in the final.

The spirit of their senior team is expected to resonate with their juniors, whom Indonesia will encounter in their debut at the Asian Cup U-23.

Indonesia's morale is on the rise following their triumph over the United Arab Emirates in their final friendly match before heading to Qatar. In a match held in Dubai, Indonesia secured a victory with a solitary goal by Witan Sulaeman in the 52nd minute.

This victory serves as a significant morale booster, especially after Indonesia suffered a 1-3 defeat against Saudi Arabia in a previous friendly also held in Dubai. Indonesia managed to equalize in the 32nd minute through Komang Teguh after conceding an early goal by Jehad Thakri in the 18th minute.

However, Indonesia conceded two more goals, scored by Haitham Asiri in the 59th minute and Abdullah Radif in the 90th minute. 

Coach Shin Tae-yong is expected to field a trio of Witan Sulaeman, Rafael Struick, and Marselino Ferdinan in the forward line. These three players will be supported by Rio Fahmi, Ivar Jenner, Arkhan Fikri, and Pratama Arhan in midfield. Meanwhile, the defensive line will be entrusted to the trio of Muhammad Ferarri, Rizky Ridho, and Komang Teguh, who will guard goalkeeper Ernando Ari.

Indonesia also received good news as the Chairman of the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI), Erick Thohir, successfully negotiated with Dutch club Heerenven to release Nathan-Tjoe-A-On for inclusion in the U-23 national team squad. 

The Rotterdam-born player will compete for a place in the left-back position, providing competition for Pratama Arhan on the left wing. Both players possess their own strengths, with Arhan excelling in throw-ins that often lead to assists and goals, while Nathan brings his experience from playing in Europe with Heerenven. Shin Tae-yong will have to make a choice between the two.

Predicted Indonesia U-23 Starting Lineup against Qatar U-23:

Indonesia U-23 (3-4-3):

Goalkeeper: Ernando Ari

Defenders: Muhammad Ferarri, Rizky Ridho, Komang Teguh

Midfielders: Rio Fahmi, Ivar Jenner, Arkhan Fikri, Pratama Arhan

Forwards: Witan Sulaeman, Rafael Struick, Marselino Ferdinan

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