Paris. The Indonesian U-23 national team saw their hopes of participating in the 2024 Paris Olympics dashed after a 0-1 defeat to Guinea in the Olympic playoff match held at Clairefontain Stadium, Paris, on Thursday. Guinea secured their Olympic spot with a winning goal from Ilaix Moriba, scored from a penalty kick in the 28th minute.

Following this result, Guinea has earned a spot to compete in the 2024 Paris Olympics.

"We didn't manage to make it to the Olympics this time. However, the long journey and achievements attained by the players, coaches, and team staff, from the Asian Cup to the playoffs, show that our football has the quality to compete in the Olympics. I deeply appreciate it, and we target the next Olympics. Thank you for your efforts," said Erick Thohir, Chairman of the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI), in an official statement.

Indonesia faced pressure in the first 15 minutes of the game. Just two minutes into the match, Guinea posed a threat. However, Moriba's shot from outside the penalty box fortunately sailed over the crossbar.

Indonesia had a chance in the 14th minute after a scramble in front of Guinea's goalmouth. Unfortunately, the scramble failed to convert into a goal. Two minutes later, Pratama Arhan had an opportunity as he broke into the defensive area. However, Arhan's right-footed shot was weak and caught by the goalkeeper.

Guinea took the lead in the 28th minute after Moriba was brought down by Witan Sulaeman in the penalty area. Moriba, who took the penalty kick, managed to deceive the goalkeeper, Ernando.

Marselino had an opportunity in the 40th minute, but his shot went wide. Indonesia almost conceded for the second time in injury time when Bah Algassime faced Ernando one-on-one.

Fortunately, Algassime's shot was blocked by Ernando's foot. The score remained 1-0 in favor of Guinea until the end of the first half.

Several changes were made by Shin Tae-yong, pulling out Komang and bringing in Dewangga in the 48th minute. Guinea continued to put pressure on Indonesia's defense.

Guinea had a golden opportunity in the 54th minute when Bah Algassime managed to deceive Ernando and pass the ball to Alseny Soumah. Fortunately, Soumah's shot was blocked by Nathan, who stood on the goal line.

Dewangga had a chance with a header from Nathan's cross, but unfortunately, it went wide in the 59th minute. Controversy arose when the referee pointed to the penalty spot for Guinea. This was after Dewangga was judged to have fouled Algassime in the penalty area.

Strong protests from Shin Tae-yong on the sidelines earned him a red card. Fortunately, Algassime's penalty kick hit the goalpost.

The final whistle blew with the score remaining 1-0 in favor of Guinea.

Erick Thohir remained confident in the national team development program that utilizes young talents, naturalized players, and long-term training programs.

"This national team has a golden generation, with players like Witan Marselino, Rizki Ridho, Ernando, and naturalized players. We have a blueprint until 2045, and we will continue to be consistent in our long-term training program. Nevertheless, we will continue to improve what needs to be improved. The achievement of the U-23 national team brings new pride and proves that football has the power to unite Indonesia," said Erick.

Lineups

Indonesia: Ernando, Ferarri, Nathan Tjoe A On, Komang, Bagas, Arhan, Jenner, Marselino, Witan, Kelly, Struick.

Guinea: Sylla, Diakite, Sow, Soumah, Keita, Issiaga Camara, A Camara, Moriba, O Camara, Bah, Conte

Add as a preferred source on Google +