Indonesia made history at the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025™ by winning their first-ever World Cup match at any level, as they edged Honduras 2-1 in their Group H finale.
While the victory will likely not be enough for them to advance to the next stage of the competition, it still represents a hugely significant moment for the nation.
One of the heroes on the day for the Garuda was captain Evandra Florasta, who calmly converted a penalty for Indonesia’s first goal shortly after the re-start, before Fadly Alberto supplied the winning goal in the latter stages of the match.
Following the momentous victory, FIFA caught up with Florasta and head coach Nova Arianto about a day that will long live in Indonesian football lore.
Nova Arianto: It’s truly an incredible feeling for us. We’re very, very excited. Our first win at a World Cup is something extraordinary for me, and I hope this becomes the starting point for the players’ journey so they can continue to grow and become even better in the future.
Evandra Florasta: Honestly, I didn’t expect that we could win this match against Honduras. We know our seniors who played at the World Cup before collected two points, and now, alhamdulillah, my team-mates and I were able to earn Indonesia’s first three points at a World Cup. I’m so happy.
Arianto: The support has really helped us, especially in terms of motivation for the players. That’s why I always say we need the backing of our supporters, and they have given us exactly that. I want to say thank you to all the fans.
Florastra: I’s like to say thank you for the support in the stadium, on the sidelines, and from everyone watching at home. I’m really, really grateful because the supporters didn’t look at the score. Even when we lost twice, they still came in large numbers to support us. I’m truly thankful to all the fans who have been here with us.
Arianto: It has been incredible, because this is the biggest event at their age level. I think it’s a great learning experience for the players, and also for me as a coach. I’ve learned a lot from this situation, and hopefully we can be even better in the future.
Florastra: This means a great deal to us. Since this team was formed, we’ve been together for two years. From the beginning, coach Nova (Arianto) told us the goal was to reach the World Cup, and I myself didn’t expect that we would actually make it here.
Arianto: The passion in Indonesia is truly extraordinary. We know there are so many people in Indonesia who love football, from supporters to the players themselves. My hope is that Indonesian football continues to improve, especially after our appearance at this World Cup.
Florastra: The passion is incredibly strong. No matter the score – whether we lose, draw, or win –we must always work hard and keep fighting.
