FIFA referees have once again become the focus of criticism at the Southeast Asian tournament.

Coach Hector Souto criticized the FIFA referees following the AFF Futsal U16 and U19 2025 final, claiming they permitted Thai players to use rough tactics against Indonesia.

After the Indonesia U16 team won the AFF Futsal U16 2025 championship, Coach Hector Souto expressed his frustration with the refereeing, especially regarding the management of matches involving Thailand.

On his personal social media, the Brazilian strategist did not hide his disappointment, stating that the FIFA-labeled referees “failed to fulfill their duties” at the tournament.

“Sorry, but the level of rough play and dangerous collisions overlooked in the AFF U19 and U16 competitions really infuriates me. It’s unfortunate that FIFA referees couldn’t control the matches,” Coach Souto shared on his Instagram Story on December 29.

His statement came just hours after Indonesia U16 defeated Thailand U16 4-3 in a thrilling final at the Nonthaburi Gymnasium (Bangkok) to claim the regional title. In this match, Hetson Messi Sirait scored twice, while Faisal Gumilang and Dafa Ramadhan each contributed a goal, helping Indonesia U16 achieve a historic victory on Thai soil.

However, Indonesia’s joy was somewhat overshadowed by rough fouls committed by the home team players. The most controversial moment was when a Thai player pushed and flipped an Indonesian player on the court, an image that quickly went viral on social media.

Despite the tough play and pressure from the home crowd, Indonesia U16 maintained their composure and demonstrated resilient spirit to win the regional title, a milestone seen as a stepping stone for the young futsal generation of the archipelago.