AFC U17 Asian Cup
The defender was overjoyed when his eighth-minute strike against Kuwait won his side their opening match, but there was a different emotion in play during their final tie against Australia.
“It was difficult playing against Australia because it’s the country my father was born in while here, I was representing my mother’s country,” said the 15-year-old. “But I had already decided that I would defend for Indonesia with all my heart.”
Baker is also proud that his team emerged unbeaten in the Qualifiers without conceding once, a feat he hopes to replicate at the AFC U17 Asian Cup™ Saudi Arabia 2025.
“We kept a clean sheet in all three matches and that was something we strived for,” he said. “That was a strong part of our game and we’re really happy, but we don’t want to dwell on that, we just want to play football.”
The year 10 student, who plays for A-League side Melbourne City FC U18, said his passion for scoring goals was inspired by Lionel Messi. Baker’s time at Melbourne City, their on-the-ball philosophy and his style of play, however, made him realise that his forte was in the back half.
“My biggest strength as a defender is that I show a lot of composure on the ball,” he said. “I’m also really confident in one-on-one situations and dealing with aerial balls.
“I want to focus on my physicality, however, because a lot of the teams at the Finals are going to be bigger than us. But that is nothing to be scared of and I always strive to hold my own.”
Baker’s first goal has driven him to look for more in the Finals and help 1990 semi-finalists Indonesia advance past the group stage for the third time in seven appearances.
“Our aim is to finish in the top two and then see how far we can go. I’m personally looking at keeping clean sheets and if I can, score or contribute towards our goals.”
