Indonesia National Team battled to a 0-0 draw against Lebanon National Team in front of a roaring home crowd at the Gelora Bung Tomo Stadium, Surabaya on Monday night.
Head coach Shin Tae-yong fielded a strong lineup with Serie A goalkeeper Emil Audero between the posts, Jay Idzes anchoring the defense, and new heritage striker Miliano Jonathans spearheading the attack.
Lebanon, meanwhile, entrusted Mostafa Matar in goal and Karim Darwich to lead their offensive line.
Pushed on by tens of thousands of supporters, Indonesia began brightly, applying early pressure on Lebanon’s defense. However, the visitors proved dangerous on the break, creating several threatening moments.
Audero’s agility was called upon more than once, the Sampdoria shot-stopper producing crucial saves to keep the match scoreless.
Despite both teams creating opportunities, the first half ended 0-0 with neither side able to find a breakthrough.
The Garuda squad came out firing after the restart, determined to find the opening goal. Wave after wave of attacks tested Lebanon’s backline, but the finishing touch continued to elude the home side.
In the 75th minute, the score remained deadlocked, though Indonesia’s relentless pressing and the electrifying atmosphere provided by the home crowd suggested a breakthrough was near.
That chance almost came in the 86th minute when Ramadhan Sananta rose highest to meet a cross, only to see his header narrowly miss the target.
Despite Indonesia’s dominance in possession and chances, the final whistle confirmed a 0-0 stalemate. Lebanon’s resilience and Audero’s heroics ensured both sides shared the spoils.
Credit Photo : PSSI
