Palembang, South Sumatra (ANTARA News) - The Indonesian Women`s National Team has sought support and prayers of all Indonesians in the inaugural match of the XVIII Asian Games against Maldives at the Jakabaring Sriwijaya Stadium in Palembang, South Sumatra, on Thursday.

Strengthened by most young players, the national team is optimistic of registering a win to achieve the target of qualifying for group A also having South Korea, Chinese Taipeh, and Maldives.

Women`s National Team Manager Papat Yunisal remarked here on Wednesday that moral support from the community was needed, as the national team had not competed in the international arena for a period of four years.

"We hope that the people, especially the citizens of Palembang, would want to provide support directly by coming to the stadium. Supporters are expected to be able to encourage the players," Yunisal noted.

According to the former national team player in the 80s, Indonesia`s chances in the match against the Maldives were quite high. Moreover, at the 2014 Asian Games, Maldives was unable to score a goal.

"Maybe we can record maximum victory against the Maldives later. However, we also have to take precautionary measures, as the opponent has prepared the team for four years while we only have six months," he noted.

However, the role as the host cannot also be underestimated, according to Papat. The national team will certainly be more motivated to win the match, as it competes in the midst of the support of the community, family, and colleagues.

Reporting by Dolly Rosana
Editing by Otniel T, Sri Haryati

Reporter: Antara
Editor: Fardah Assegaf
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