KUALA LUMPUR (27 Nov 2012) – Indonesia ace striker Bambang Pamungkas says the opening draw against Laos was not really that bad and his team still had everything to play for.
“It’s not over, considering the situation we are in, with so many new players in the team, the draw was not bad, we still have two more games,” said the Persija Jakarta frontman.
Laos staged a surprise when they held Indonesia to a 2-2 draw in their opening Group B match two days ago. Indonesia, the runners-up in the previous tournament, never expected Laos to put up such a fight.
Khampeng Sayavutthi stunned the Indonesians when he smashed the opener on the half hour mark. Raphael Mattimo however managed to level the score in the 43rd minute.
Laos then stunned their rivals for a second time when Keoviengphieth Lithideth found the back of the net in the 80th minute. They appeared to be heading for a famous win but their dreams were dashed by Vendry Ronaldo Mofu struck in injury time.
Bambang said the team had a combination of experienced and young players.
“Some are playing in a major competition for the first time. This was a good lesson for the young players and I hope it will encourage them to play even better in the next match,” added Bambang.
Indonesia will face Singapore, the Group B leaders after sensationally beating Malaysia 3-0.
Pix by Stanley Chou (World Sport Group)
