The defeat at Thailand’s Rayong Stadium soured the mood of millions of Indonesians, although the country's soccer association encouraged the junior national team Garuda Muda (Young Garuda) to keep their heads up as they geared up for even bigger competitions in the coming months.

Heading into Saturday’s final, hopes were high among fans that the team could replicate its recent success at the South East Asian (SEA) Games.

The team had its first real chance in the 26^th minute when it was awarded a free kick. Rifky Dwi Septiawan’s shot, however, was blocked by Vietnamese goalkeeper Quan Van Chuan.

Minutes later, Indonesian goalkeeper Ernando Ari saved a Vietnamese penalty, preventing Indonesia from falling behind before the second half.

Another free kick, taken this time by Indonesia’s Ramadhan Sananta, hit the crossbar at the 76^th minute, causing the match to go into extra time. Another 30 minutes of soccer still failed to separate the two sides.

Indonesia lost the final in a 6-to-5 penalty shootout after a tame shot by keeper Ernando was blocked by his Vietnamese counterpart.