Garuda Pertiwi placed runner-up at the Srikandi Merdeka Cup, Timo stated that his team's overall quality level is not lopsided.

Indonesia's U-16 Women's National Team had to settle for runner-up at the 2026 Srikandi Merdeka Cup following a 0-1 defeat against Thailand. Despite failing to bring home the trophy, Garuda Pertiwi head coach Timo Scheunemann assessed that the quality gap between his squad and Thailand was not substantial.

Indonesia even managed to apply consistent pressure against Thailand during the final match held at Supersoccer Arena, Kudus, Central Java on Sunday, 23 August.

"We recorded 51% ball possession against Thailand. Never before have we come close to 50% possession in any match against Thailand. We only conceded once from a set piece, and they were put under real pressure," stated Timo.

This possession statistic became one of Timo's core references to remain optimistic about his players' development. According to the coach, Garuda Pertiwi delivered a competitive performance despite navigating an extremely packed match schedule throughout the tournament.

Players Navigated a Dense Fixture Schedule

Garuda Pertiwi were required to compete in five matches within just 10 days, making player physical condition one of the team's greatest challenges.

Even so, Timo expressed full appreciation for his players' fight and effort.

"I am satisfied with this squad. Even while exhausted, they still gave 100% on the pitch. Our playing combinations also came through well, we just lacked that final cutting edge in the attacking third," he said.

For Timo, the core problem was not the team's ability to match Thailand's level. Garuda Pertiwi still needs to improve sharpness in the final third of the pitch in order to convert their game dominance into clear chances and goals.

The defeat felt all the more painful as Indonesia had realistic opportunities to force the match into a penalty shootout.

"This hurts, because we should have been able to take this game to penalties. If it had gone to spot kicks, I am fully confident we would have won," he added.

Timo rejected the assumption that Garuda Pertiwi sit an entire tier below Thailand. He assessed that the quality difference between the two sides is extremely narrow.

"There is no wide gap, we are not far behind them. If we were truly outclassed, a loss would be understandable. But this was an extremely close contest against them," Timo said.

Erick Thohir Urges Garuda Pertiwi Not To Surrender

PSSI General Chairman Erick Thohir extended his support to Garuda Pertiwi following the final defeat.

"The fight is not over yet. Keep your spirit high for the journey ahead," Erick Thohir wrote on his official social media account from Jakarta on Monday.

Erick assessed that the experience gained during this tournament will become valuable capital for the young players' development.

He reminded the squad that Garuda Pertiwi still have a long journey ahead. Their next major agenda is the 2027 AFC U-17 Women's Asian Cup Qualifiers, which will be held in Singapore from 5 to 11 October.

Indonesia has been drawn into Group B alongside Singapore, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain.

Erick also called on the players to maintain their confidence, and not use this final defeat as an excuse to stop chasing achievements.

"Keep believing, keep fighting, and never give up. I trust Garuda Pertiwi will soar high," Erick wrote.