The quarter-final stage of the 2025 AFC U-17 Asian Cup will see the Indonesia U-17 national team face off against North Korea U-17 in what promises to be a fiercely competitive match. This much-anticipated game will take place tonight, Monday (April 14, 2025), at the King Abdullah Sports City Hall Stadium in Jeddah, offering both teams a chance to showcase their top-tier talent.
Under the guidance of head coach Nova Arianto, the Indonesian U-17 squad enters this match with an impressive track record. They dominated the group stage with three consecutive wins. Evandra Florasta and his teammates defeated South Korea (1-0), Yemen (4-1), and Afghanistan (2-0), highlighting the massive potential of the Garuda Muda (Young Garuda) squad.
However, despite their strong group performance, Indonesia must not underestimate the strength of North Korea. Though finishing as runners-up in Group D, North Korea possesses several key players capable of turning the tide of the match.
Kim Yu Jin: North Korea’s Captain and Main Threat in U-17 Asian Cup
One standout player to watch from North Korea U-17 is team captain Kim Yu Jin. The 17-year-old has played a vital role in leading his team to the quarter-finals, being a key force in both attack and midfield.
Kim was the hero in their decisive final group match against Oman, where a win was essential. In the 10th minute, he scored the opening goal after receiving a long pass, outmaneuvering his marker, and blasting a powerful shot into the corner of the net. Later, in the 74th minute, he showed his class again by assisting Ri Kang Rim for the equalizing goal that made it 2-2.
The 4.25 Sports Club player had also registered an assist in their 3-0 win over Tajikistan, further proving his quality. With two draws and one win, North Korea secured the Group D runner-up spot and are now on a path toward claiming their third U-17 Asian Cup title.
Kim Yu Jin’s Motivation Ahead of Indonesia Clash
Kim Yu Jin is not only physically prepared but also mentally fired up for the upcoming showdown with Indonesia. In an interview, he expressed his strong determination to go all the way and lift the U-17 Asian Cup trophy.
“We came here to become champions. Our performance in the group stage is proof of our commitment to winning this trophy,” said Kim with passion.
While acknowledging the role of individual brilliance, Kim emphasized the importance of teamwork. “I’m 100 percent ready, but more importantly, our squad is ready. This match isn’t just about me — it’s about all of us,” he added.
An Inspiring Journey: Kim Yu Jin’s Rise in Football Especially in U-17 Asian Cup
Kim Yu Jin began playing football at the age of eight and has had an inspiring journey since. Selected by his elementary school coach to join the team, Kim has been dedicated to the sport ever since.
He fondly remembers his experiences during the 2025 U-17 Asian Cup qualifiers, where he scored several crucial goals. “I’m very fast — that’s my strength. I’m well-suited to play as a forward. But I know I need to keep working on my shot accuracy to become even better,” Kim said.
With a wealth of international experience, including goals in major matches, Kim believes he is ready to take on tough opponents like Indonesia.
North Korea U-17: A Team with Big Ambitions
The ambition of Kim Yu Jin and his North Korean teammates is crystal clear: to win the U-17 Asian Cup for the third time. With individual talents like Kim and the dangerous forward Ri Kang Rim, Indonesia must stay alert and not underestimate coach Thae-song O’s side.
This match promises to be an exciting battle between two determined teams aiming to make history in the AFC U-17 Asian Cup. While Indonesia dreams of progressing further, North Korea seeks to reclaim the title. Who will emerge victorious? All will be revealed tonight.
With fast-paced gameplay, rising stars, and burning ambition on both sides, this could be one of the most thrilling matches of the 2025 U-17 Asian Cup quarter-finals. Who will win? Let’s find out together.
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