Indonesia stands on the brink of making history for Southeast Asia

The Indonesian futsal team has the chance to be the first Southeast Asian side to claim the Asian futsal title.

The atmosphere before the AFC Futsal Asian Cup 2026 final is hotter than ever as Indonesia’s futsal team is just one step away from a historic milestone. If they achieve this feat, they will be the first Southeast Asian team to lift the continental championship trophy – something the region has awaited for decades.

Indonesia’s journey this year has been truly remarkable. Starting from a position not highly rated, the host team has overcome tough challenges one after another. The highlight was their victory over Japan’s futsal team in the semifinals, a result that stunned all of Asia and opened the door to the final match.

Confidence in the Indonesian team has grown as they are led by coach Hector Souto – who has instilled discipline and an energetic playing style in the squad. Indonesia no longer enters the court to learn; they compete with the confidence of a genuine contender, ready to rewrite the established order.

However, ahead lies a massive challenge named the Iran futsal team. The West Asian side has won 13 out of 17 tournaments, almost becoming an absolute symbol of power in the competition. Iran’s presence in the final is therefore unsurprising, in stark contrast to Indonesia’s breakthrough.

This contrast is what makes the showdown so captivating. Southeast Asian fans once felt regret when Thailand’s futsal team reached the 2024 final but failed to overcome Iran. Now, hope is passed on to Indonesia – a team poised to accomplish what previous generations could not.

Only 40 minutes remain to decide everything. A victory will be more than just a title; it will be a statement that Southeast Asian futsal is capable of rising to the top of the continent. If they defeat Iran, Indonesia will enter the hall of fame as the pioneering champions of the entire region.