The competitiveness of women’s football in Southeast Asia can no longer be underestimated. The 2026 AFF Women’s Cup witnessed the remarkable rise of Indonesia’s Garuda Pertiwi squad, which delivered outstanding performances throughout the tournament.
A solid combination of mentally resilient local players and overseas-based talents who brought the competitive standards of European and American football enabled Indonesia to play an aggressive, tactical, and entertaining brand of football.
Indonesia’s dominant campaign was driven by several standout individual performances. Among the team’s heroes, five players captured the attention of football fans across the country with their exceptional displays.
1. Emily Nahon: Composed Leadership and the Captain’s Clinical Edge
As the last line of defense before the goalkeeper, the role of a center-back is never easy. However, Emily Nahon proved that, despite being only 19 years old, she already possesses remarkable tactical maturity.
Currently playing for the University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Emily calmly marshaled the Garuda Pertiwi defense throughout the tournament.
Standing 175 cm tall and with 17 international caps to her name, she dominated aerial duels and defensive clearances.
More impressively, the captain was not only solid defensively but also posed a significant threat during set-piece situations.
Emily scored two crucial goals during the 2026 AFF Women’s Cup.
2. Estella Loupatty: European-Class Pace and Finishing
Indonesia’s wide attacking unit became one of the most dangerous weapons against opposing defenses, with Estella Loupatty playing a leading role.
The 22-year-old winger, who currently plays in Italy for Women Torres Calcio, brought valuable European experience to the national team.
Standing 161 cm tall and having earned 18 international caps, Estella is known for her agility, explosive acceleration, and fearless dribbling into the penalty area.
Her impact was reflected in the two goals she scored to help Garuda Pertiwi advance deep into the tournament.
3. Sheva Imut: The Creative Playmaker Named Player of the Tournament
Sheva Imut continued to impress throughout the competition.
Operating as an attacking midfielder, the 22-year-old, who plays for Makati, served as the creative heartbeat of Indonesia’s attack.
Her outstanding vision, precise through balls, and composure in possession allowed Indonesia to build fluid and effective attacking moves.
In addition to scoring one beautifully placed goal, Sheva’s consistently outstanding performances earned her one of the tournament’s highest individual honors.
She was officially named the 2026 AFF Women’s Cup Best Player of the Tournament.
4. Felicia De Zeeuw: The Midfield General Who Controlled the Tempo
While Sheva Imut orchestrated Indonesia’s attack, Felicia De Zeeuw provided balance and dictated the tempo in midfield.
The 20-year-old developed her football career in the Netherlands with top-flight club ADO Den Haag.
Standing 170 cm tall and having made 14 international appearances, Felicia possesses excellent positioning and interception abilities.
She effectively balanced Indonesia’s transitions between defense and attack while maintaining composure under pressure, helping the Indonesian midfield dominate its opponents.
5. Laita Roati: The Reliable Wall and Best Goalkeeper Award Winner
Between the posts, Indonesia had a dependable last line of defense in Laita Roati.
At 26 years old, the Arema FC Women goalkeeper was the most experienced player among these five standout stars, providing confidence and stability to the entire defensive unit.
Her quick reflexes, calmness in dealing with crosses, and commanding communication made Indonesia’s goal extremely difficult to breach.
Laita recorded three clean sheets during the tournament.
Her outstanding performances earned her the 2026 AFF Women’s Cup Best Goalkeeper award.
A Bright Future for Indonesian Women’s Football
The achievements and positive influence of Emily Nahon, Estella Loupatty, Sheva Imut, Felicia De Zeeuw, and Laita Roati demonstrate the rapid progress of Indonesian women’s football.
The strong synergy between local talents and internationally experienced players is expected to continue, helping elevate Indonesia’s standing on the global football stage.***
