Baker hits hat-trick as Indonesia thrash Cambodia 5-1 in ASEAN Cup opener
Indonesia made a dream start, taking the lead in the sixth minute when Haye’s free kick found the towering 1.96-meter Baker, who outjumped Cambodia’s defenders to head home on his international debut.
The hosts maintained relentless pressure and doubled their advantage in the 15th minute. Haye released Eliano Reijnders behind Cambodia’s defense, and the midfielder squared the ball for Baker to tap into an empty net.
Indonesia continued to dominate possession and created several more chances before extending their lead in the 24th minute. Defender Sandy Walsh rose highest to head in a corner, making it 3-0.
Cambodia struggled to cope with Indonesia’s intensity throughout the first half, with the hosts enjoying 65% possession and completing more than 90% of their passes before the break.
The visitors pulled one back shortly after halftime in fortunate fashion. A cross from the left in the 48th minute caught goalkeeper Nadeo Argawinata off guard, and his attempted save ended up in his own net.
Any hopes of a comeback were quickly extinguished eight minutes later.
Haye delivered another pinpoint cross for Baker, who powered home to complete his hat-trick and restore Indonesia’s three-goal cushion. Baker was substituted immediately afterward to a standing ovation.
Indonesia continued to control the match and added a fifth goal in the 86th minute after Cambodia defender Makara’s attempted clearance fell straight to substitute Jens Raven, who calmly finished into an empty net.
Raven thought he had scored again three minutes later, but the goal was ruled out after Haye’s long-range effort struck his arm before crossing the line.
Haye was unable to find a goal of his own despite several attempts, but his three assists earned him the standout performance of the match.
Indonesia finished with 19 shots, including 11 on target, compared with Cambodia’s three attempts, only one of which resulted in a goal.
The convincing victory gives Indonesia an early advantage in Group A, where defending champions Vietnam are widely expected to be their main rivals for a place in the semifinals. Cambodia face an uphill battle to progress after suffering a heavy opening defeat.
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