Indonesia good start in AFF Cup

Irfan Bachdim during national anthem

Indonesia start the 2010 AFF Cup with a convincing win against old competitor Malaysia in a match that not only bring the football atmosphere but also different issues around the two neighbors.

Indonesia who plays their  two new naturalization player in front Christian Gonzales and Irfan Bachdim bring a new hope to the crowds. And the two shown that they deserve the cheer by scoring one goal each. Bachdim also play important role in the first Indonesian goal who turn to be an own goal. The other two goals scored by M. Ridwan after a nice one-two with Bustomi and Arif Suyono who just a minute in the field changing Ridwan.

It's not that easy start though for the home side. Eventough quite under attack the Malaysian young side shows their capability as Sea Games Gold Medal. They managed to scored  the first goal using a counter attack that let Saeef win one-on-one against Hamka the just come back defender. Norsharul who unguarded managed to beat Markus for the first goal that stun Indonesian supporter. But the shaky performance soon relieved when an own goal and Gonzales be able to bring the home side lead against the Malaysian. Utina and Bustomi shows their capability controlling the midfield while Hamka play much better in the second half.

Bambang Pamungkas was given about 10 last minutes to play, but he seems quite know that Gonzales and Bachdim has done good in the 80 minutes, so hopefully the competition in the line up will go well and for the sake of Indonesia best performance in the tournament.