Mitchell Baker hits five as rampant Indonesia crush Bangladesh 9-2 to reach ASEAN Cup final

Crushing Bangladesh 9-2 on 1 October, Indonesia squeezed through to the 2026 FIFA ASEAN Cup final. Striker Mitchell Baker stole the show with a stunning five-goal haul in a chaotic encounter in Jakarta. The result saw Indonesia draw level on a +9 goal difference with Malaysia, dramatically sealing their progression by virtue of scoring two more goals than their rivals (11 compared to 9).

Stoppage-time drama and a historic five-goal haul

Mitchell Baker secured a historic five-goal haul with strikes in the 11th, 20th, 37th, 42nd, and 90+7th minutes. The 19-year-old forward was clinical, converting his chances to put Indonesia firmly in control during the first half.

However, a sluggish second-half display combined with conceding in the 91st minute left Indonesia in a precarious position. The 7-2 scoreline at that point meant they trailed Malaysia by two goals on goal difference, staring down the barrel of elimination.

A dramatic twist unfolded in the dying moments of stoppage time. Kevin Diks rekindled hope with a goal in the 96th minute, before Baker tapped home from close range in the 97th minute to complete an unbelievable goal-difference turnaround.

Squeezing through on goal difference to pip Malaysia

At the conclusion of Group A, Indonesia and Malaysia finished level on seven points and a +9 goal difference after three matches. The Merah Putih claimed top spot and a place in the final courtesy of scoring more goals than their rivals (11 goals compared to Malaysia's nine).

This historic triumph carried profound emotional weight, falling on the fourth anniversary of the Kanjuruhan stadium disaster (1 October 2022). John Herdman's side fulfilled their promise to fight with everything they had, honoring the victims with a courageous performance.

Dominant display seals final showdown with Thailand

Indonesia's rampant victory was backed up by dominant statistics at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium. The hosts enjoyed 70% possession, completely dictating play while unleashing 32 shots, with 17 on target, against Bangladesh.

Having survived a breathless group stage, Indonesia now face a fiery final showdown against arch-rivals Thailand on 5 October. The War Elephants cruised through as Group B winners, promising to be the ultimate test for John Herdman's title ambitions.

Our Verdict

Indonesia's place in the final is a fitting reward for a fighting spirit that refused to yield until the very last second. Their resilience in overcoming adversity at the crucial moment proved the character and ambition of the Merah Putih.

The final against rivals Thailand on 5 October will be the ultimate litmus test of John Herdman's side. Do you think Indonesia can overcome Thailand to lift the 2026 ASEAN Cup?