Mitch Baker announced himself on the international stage in sensational fashion, scoring a remarkable hat-trick on his senior debut as Indonesia stormed to a commanding 5-1 victory over Cambodia in their opening ASEAN Hyundai Cup 2026 Group A match at Pakansari Stadium, Bogor.
The 19-year-old forward delivered a performance to remember, netting in the 5th, 15th and 56th minutes to inspire John Herdman’s side to an emphatic opening win and immediately establish the Garuda as one of the tournament’s early title contenders.
Defender Sandy Walsh also found the scoresheet, while substitute Jens Raven completed the rout late in the contest. Cambodia’s only goal came courtesy of an unfortunate own goal by Indonesian goalkeeper Nadeo Argawinata after pressure from Chhea Sokmeng early in the second half.
Indonesia wasted little time asserting their dominance, taking the lead after just five minutes.
Following a foul on Ivar Jenner, Thom Haye delivered an inviting free-kick into the penalty area, where Baker brilliantly glanced a backward header beyond goalkeeper Hul Kimhuy to mark his international debut with a goal.
The young striker doubled both his tally and Indonesia’s advantage ten minutes later after Marc Klok released Eliano Reijnders down the right flank. Reijnders squared the ball perfectly across goal, allowing Baker to apply the simplest of finishes from close range.
Indonesia continued to dominate proceedings, with Walsh initially striking the post before eventually adding a deserved third in the 24th minute.
Another dangerous delivery from Haye, this time from a corner, found the former Buriram United and Yokohama F. Marinos defender, who powered home a commanding header to put the hosts firmly in control before halftime.
Cambodia showed signs of life shortly after the restart.
A cleverly worked short corner allowed Yudai Ogawa to combine with Chhea Sokmeng, whose dangerous cross-shot forced Nadeo into an awkward save that diverted into his own net, reducing the deficit to 3-1.
However, Indonesia quickly regained complete control.
After Egy Maulana rattled the crossbar and Baker narrowly missed another header, the teenage striker finally completed his dream debut.
Once again, Thom Haye provided the assist with another pinpoint cross, and Baker rose highest to head home his third goal of the evening, leaving Kimhuy rooted to the spot as the ball flew into the net.
Indonesia continued attacking until the final whistle and were rewarded again in the closing stages.
A defensive mistake from Cambodia gifted substitute Jens Raven a simple finish from close range, wrapping up an emphatic 5-1 victory for the six-time ASEAN Championship runners-up.
Credit Photo : PSSI
