Timo Scheunemann says MLSC development aligns with FIFA's plans
Kudus, Central Java (ANTARA) - Timo Scheunemann, head coach of the MilkLife Soccer Challenge (MLSC) All-Stars 2026, stated that the talent development system for young female footballers through MLSC is aligned with FIFA’s plan to introduce a U15 World Cup.
“FIFA already has plans for the future, with an annual U15 World Cup for both boys and girls. The system will be similar to the Gothia Cup, playing 9-a-side, exactly like we do here (MLSC),” said Timo Scheunemann when met at the MLSC All-Stars 2026 event at Supersoccer Arena, Kudus, Central Java, on Sunday.
The MLSC programme, initiated by the Bakti Olahraga Djarum Foundation, has been conducting development for female footballers in the age group category across the country. Young talents from various regions compete for the MLSC All-Stars championship title.
MLSC All-Stars 2026 is the second edition to adopt a 9-vs-9 format to increase the level of competition before progressing to more professional stages.
In terms of match duration, it has been extended to 2 x 20 minutes with a 10-minute break, whereas the previous edition featured 2 x 15 minutes with a 5-minute halftime. The pitch dimensions remain the same at 50 x 35 metres, using 2 x 5 metre goals.
MLSC has also innovated by increasing the squad quota for each team from 14 players to 16 players, accompanied by four officials.
Timo explained that the MLSC development system is in line with the global development of women’s football. The man, who also serves as the coach of the Indonesia Women’s U17 National Team, noted two developing approaches in global women’s football: the Dutch-German perspective and the English-American perspective.
From the Dutch-German perspective, he said, the goal is for women’s football to be played on the smallest possible pitch with fewer players and longer durations. Meanwhile, from the English-American perspective, the aim is for women’s football to move to 11-a-side as quickly as possible.
“I see that the philosophy that will prevail is the English-American one, because essentially, and from my experience as an enthusiast, the more ball touches, the better,” he said.
Therefore, Timo continued, the age-group development implemented by MLSC for the Primary School (SD) level is well-suited for progressing to the U15 level, especially since there is also the Hydroplus Super League tournament for the Junior High School (SMP) level.
“It is perfectly aligned. By the time they reach the U18 level, they will be playing 11-a-side. So, we are already synchronised with what FIFA is doing,” he said.