Indonesia eyes first gold in six years from the boxing ring

After the dejection of two years ago, when Indonesian boxers failed to even make the finals, the team came closer to realizing its ambitious target of two gold medals in Laos after Monday’s matches.

Ahmad Amri in the men’s 81-kg and Indri Sambaimana in the women’s 51-kg advanced to the finals after beating their respective opponents.

Both overcame Laotian opposition, with Amri, who is making his SEA Games debut, defeating Sisuphanh and Indri outfighting Somphone Keosila.

“The chance for Ahmad is very good, as his posture is taller than the Malaysian boxer,” team manager Syamsul Anwar said about Amri’s opponent in the final on Tuesday.

Amri’s opponent Muhd. Fairus claimed his final spot with 9-1 demolition of Cambodian Ephou Thang.

Indri will face a tough test from Philippines’ Albania Annie, who narrowly won over Sopida Satumrum of Thailand 6-4.

In the other bouts, Indonesian boxers failed to overcome their opponents.

Women’s bantamweight Welmi Pariama lost her chance after losing 2-10 to Vietnamese Duan Thi Lien. While lightweight Selly Wanimbo was stopped by Laotian Milvady Hongfa 8-15.

Indonesia has another two shots at medals with Matius Mandingan facing Malaysian Muhammad Ali Abdul Karim in the men’s bantamweight and Urias Arenaldo Moniaga taking on Cambodian Phal Sophat in the men’s featherweight in their semifinal matches on Tuesday.