SURABAYA – The Indonesian national team delivered a convincing performance in the first half against Oman in an international friendly match. The Garuda squad closed the first 45 minutes with a 2-0 lead, thanks to goals scored by Justin Hubner and Ole Romeny.
From the start of the match, Indonesia took the initiative in attack. The aggressive play displayed by the Garuda players made it difficult for Oman to develop their game.
Indonesia’s pressure finally paid off in the 15th minute. From an attacking move built from the side of the field, a dead ball situation was well utilized by Justin Hubner to break through Oman’s goal. The goal gave Indonesia a 1-0 lead and boosted the players’ confidence on the field.
After taking the lead, Indonesia did not let up on their attacks. Ragnar Oratmangoen threatened the opponent’s defense several times with quick movements and shots towards Oman’s goal.
In the 18th minute, Indonesia had an opportunity from a corner kick executed by Kevin Diks. This dead ball situation again created pressure on Oman’s back line, which struggled to anticipate the relentless attacks from the Garuda squad.
Indonesia’s dominance continued until the second goal was scored in the 28th minute. Naturalized striker Ole Romeny successfully took advantage of an opportunity inside the penalty box to increase the lead to 2-0. This goal further emphasized Indonesia’s dominance throughout the first half.
Despite trailing by two goals, Oman tried to fight back and got a golden opportunity in the 37th minute after the referee pointed to the penalty spot. This chance could have reduced the visitors’ deficit.
However, goalkeeper Emil Audero performed brilliantly under Indonesia’s crossbar. The former Serie A goalkeeper managed to read the ball’s direction and saved the penalty kick from the Oman player. That save became a crucial moment that preserved Indonesia’s two-goal lead.
Former Indonesian national team midfielder Ponaryo Astaman assessed that the Garuda squad’s performance in the first half showed very positive development.
“Indonesia played with high intensity from the first minute. Justin Hubner’s goal opened the team’s confidence, then Ole Romeny was able to maximize the chance for a second goal. Added to Emil Audero’s penalty save, this first half demonstrated excellent quality and competitive mentality,” said Ponaryo.
Until the referee blew the whistle to end the first half, the Indonesian national team maintained their 2-0 lead over Oman. Goals from Justin Hubner in the 15th minute and Ole Romeny in the 28th minute made the difference, while Emil Audero’s heroic penalty save ensured Garuda closed the first half of the match with a perfect result.
