Flooring Guide by Cinvex – , JAKARTA — Nova Arianto, the esteemed coach of the Indonesia U-17 national team, has extended profound gratitude to the PSSI (Football Association of Indonesia) for its unwavering support throughout the team’s meticulous formation and extensive preparation for the upcoming U-17 World Cup 2025 in Qatar. This comprehensive backing has been instrumental in shaping the squad.
Nova revealed that from the moment their detailed roadmap for the World Cup preparations was submitted, every aspect received full endorsement. This included crucial friendly matches such as the Independence Cup in Medan against the formidable Mali, as well as three high-profile exhibition games in Dubai where they faced Paraguay, Ivory Coast, and Panama. “We are incredibly grateful for the facilities provided by PSSI, ensuring our players are truly ready,” Nova stated during an online interview with Indonesian journalists on Sunday, November 2, 2025.
Beyond mere logistics and facilities, Nova elaborated that the federation’s support also encompassed a profound trust in the coaching staff to implement a robust player development program, which commenced in early 2024. This extensive process covered vital stages including player monitoring, strategic squad formation, and a series of challenging test matches designed to accurately gauge the team’s readiness and progress.
Following two weeks of intensive training, the Young Garuda squad has now arrived in Qatar, poised to face their inaugural match against Zambia. Nova confidently assessed his players as being in ideal physical and mental condition, a direct result of the long-term, meticulously structured training regimen. He emphasized that the team’s primary focus remains on delivering their best possible performance on the global stage, free from the burden of excessive targets.
For Nova, the U-17 World Cup transcends a mere competition; it represents a pivotal opportunity for young Indonesian players to showcase their immense potential at the highest international level before progressing to the U-20 or even senior national teams. He highlighted the positive developmental trend observed in the players since last year, which serves as a robust foundation for confronting tough adversaries.
Additionally, Nova addressed the tournament’s unique festival format. He noted that the distinct match atmosphere poses no significant challenge, as the team had proactively anticipated and prepared for it since their intensive training camp in Bali. Training on smaller pitches with high intensity was specifically adopted to acclimate the players to the conditions they will encounter in Qatar.
Regarding the caliber of their opponents, Nova acknowledged that differences in stature and physical strength would present a significant challenge for his team. He underscored the critical importance of a strong mentality and the players’ courage to perform without fear, while simultaneously using this platform to measure their capabilities against peers from other nations.
Nova also commended the players’ exemplary discipline throughout the preparation phase. He observed that every team member displayed remarkable maturity, both on and off the field, extending even to their responsible use of social media. The invaluable support from the psychological team was also crucial in maintaining the players’ emotional stability as they approached this major international tournament.
“Our goal is simple: to perform optimally and give our absolute best for Indonesia,” Nova affirmed. “Expectations are undoubtedly high, especially following the senior team’s results. But I don’t want the boys to feel pressured. The most important thing is for them to enjoy the game and gain as much experience as possible.”
The 44-year-old coach urged his charges to maintain absolute focus on their opening clash against Zambia before contemplating other formidable opponents such as Brazil and Honduras. He drew parallels to the U-17 team’s past victory over Kuwait in the qualifiers, reminding them that a win in the first match can generate crucial positive momentum.
Despite recognizing the superior skill level of many opponents, Nova remains optimistic about Indonesia’s chances of advancing to the knockout stage, especially given that eight of the best third-placed teams will qualify. He expressed his hope that the players will fully enjoy the competition while simultaneously gauging their global standards.
Furthermore, Nova underscored that this event also serves as a golden opportunity for players to catch the eye of international talent scouts, who will be monitoring matches directly in Qatar. He is hopeful that several players will attract the attention of foreign clubs through their stellar performances in the tournament.
Concluding his remarks, Nova delivered a heartfelt message to the Indonesian public.
“We humbly request prayers from all Indonesian people. We hope to give our best, but please do not set expectations too high. This is a long and vital process towards achieving even greater heights in football,” he stated.
Summary
Indonesia U-17 national team coach Nova Arianto expressed profound gratitude to PSSI for their comprehensive support in forming and preparing the squad for the U-17 World Cup 2025 in Qatar. This included full endorsement of their roadmap, crucial friendly matches, facilities, and trust in a long-term player development program initiated in early 2024. The Young Garuda squad is now in Qatar, physically and mentally prepared for their opening match against Zambia, aiming to perform optimally without undue pressure.
Nova views the World Cup as a vital platform for young Indonesian players to showcase their potential and gain international experience, despite acknowledging the superior skill of some opponents. He emphasizes the importance of a strong mentality and courage, while remaining optimistic about advancing to the knockout stage. The coach also hopes players will attract international scouts, requesting public prayers but stressing not to set excessively high expectations for this developmental process.