Results Of ISG Soccer Competition Good For Sea Games

Palembang, S Sumatra, Sept 30 (Antara) - Coach of the Indonesian national soccer team Rahmad Darmawan said that the results of soccer competition at the 3rd Islamic Solidarity Games (ISG) 2013 is good for the host to prepare its squad for Myanmar SEA Games. Rahmad who made the remarks after the Indonesian team lost 1-2 to Morocco here on Sunday night, added that quality of the Indonesian team opponents at the international event is better. Morocco that fielded U-20 (under 20 years old) players eventually grabbed a gold medal by defeating the host team at the second half. The Indonesian national team that fielded the U-23 (under 23 years old) players netted the goal to Morocco`s wicket by Alfin Tuasalamony through the penalty spot, after the Morocco`s goal keeper violated the host striker Bayu Gatra. The host team which was supported by thousands of spectators, at the Jakabaring sports stadium in Palembang, capital city of South Sumatra actually had a lot of opportunities to make goals, but the team failed to make more goals. At the qualification round, the Indonesian soccer team successfully defeated the Morocco`s team on Thursday night (Sept.19). "We use best method in an effort to build a soccer team. We prepare a good team after conducting trials," he said. According to him, the host played against better quality squads that have higher FIFA level at the ISG compared with the host team. Instead of facing Morocco at the final round, the host also played against stronger teams such as Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Iraq, Palestine and Syria. At the semifinal the host team was even successful to defeat Turkey, the coach said.