PSSI and SEA Games

PSSI and SEA Games

From Kompas

As an avid football fan, I am very disappointed with the failure of the Indonesian national soccer team to qualify for the semifinals of the Southeast Asian Games. But we must learn a lesson from that failure and remember that failure is the beginning of the road to success. It is necessary for us to be introspective and more professional in managing the team.

I applaud the three coaches -- Romano Mate, Andy Teguh and Harry Tjong -- because they have recruited young players for the international arena. Players such as Kurnia Sandi, Kurniawan, Bima Sakti, Anang Makruf, Idriayanto, Aples GT and other young athletes will be more mentally and technically mature in 2002.

In comparison, the Brazilian team which failed in the 1966 World Cup rose to success in 1970. Same with the Argentine team. It suffered a convincing 0-4 defeat to the Dutch team in 1974, but catapulted to success four years later.

I think the three coaches should be maintained until 2002. We have six years to go. By that time our players' age will range from 26 to 29, a mature age for soccer players. No need to feel downhearted, we will get to the top in 2002.

UMRI UCOK NASUTION

Jakarta