Jakarta. The extension of Indonesia's National Football Team coach Shin Tae-yong's contract will be decided after the conclusion of the AFC U-23 Asian Cup, set from April 15 to May 3, according to the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI). The decision hinges on the team's performance in both senior and U-23 categories in this year's Asian Cup.

At the senior level, South Korean coach Shin Tae-yong achieved a historic qualification for Indonesia, reaching the Round of 16 for the first time. The team is now gearing up to face Australia Jassim bin Hamad Stadium on Sunday in Doha, Qatar.

"We had two targets: for the senior national team to reach the Round of 16, and for the U-23 team. So, there are additional tasks, and we are collectively maintaining professionalism," said the President of PSSI Erick Thohir during an interview at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium in Senayan, Jakarta, on Friday.

Erick is confident that the Garuda team can compete with the Socceroos, citing Indonesia's naturalized players competing in Europe such as Elkan Baggot, Justin Hubner, Rafael Struick, and Ivar Jenner.

Additionally, Erick believes Australia's playing level is still below that of Japan, currently the strongest team in Asia ranked 17th in the world. Indonesia faced a 3-1 defeat against Japan in their final group-stage match. Despite the loss, the Garuda, ranked 146th, displayed a commendable performance, putting up a strong fight.

"I think Australia is not a team to be underestimated, although their ranking is lower. However, their style of play is different from Japan and South Korea. We have many players competing in England and the Netherlands so that the match might be more balanced," said Erick, who is also the Minister of State-Owned Enterprises.

Considering the outcomes of the two previous encounters with Australia, Erick is optimistic that Indonesia can achieve better results in the upcoming match.

"Looking at our history with Australia in 2009-2010, we held a 0-0 draw in 2009 and narrowly lost 0-1 in 2010. With the improvement in the Red and White's game, I believe we can achieve better results this time," he said.

He encourages all players participating in the Round of 16 AFC Asian Cup match against Australia to showcase their best abilities, as Indonesia has a chance to advance to the quarter-finals.
 

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