Asnawi Mangkualam Bahar made his senior international debut for Indonesia on 21 March 2017 in a friendly match against Myanmar. At the age of 17 years and 167 days, this appearance established a new record as the youngest player to earn a senior international cap for his country, a mark he held until January 2022.
Early Career in Indonesia
Born on 4 October 1999 in Makassar, Asnawi progressed through the youth ranks of PSM Makassar. In 2016, he joined Persiba Balikpapan for the Indonesia Soccer Championship A, where he became the youngest player to score in that competition at 17 years and five days. He returned to PSM Makassar in 2017, debuting in the Indonesia President's Cup and subsequently making his first appearance in Liga 1 on 16 April. His tenure with the club included winning the 2019 Piala Indonesia, where he was named the tournament's Best Young Player.
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In January 2021, Asnawi signed with the K League 2 side Ansan Greeners, becoming the first Indonesian footballer to compete in the Korean league. His move, influenced by the encouragement of coach Shin Tae-yong, sparked significant interest from local Indonesian communities in South Korea. He made his debut on 28 March 2021 in the Korean FA Cup and his league debut on 3 April. Following two seasons at Ansan, he transferred to Jeonnam Dragons in January 2023, where he saw action in various defensive and midfield roles.
International Competition and Thai League
Beyond his domestic league appearances, Asnawi has remained a regular fixture for Indonesian national squads. He earned a silver medal with the Under-23 team at the 2019 Southeast Asian Games. During the 2020 AFF Championship, he scored his first international goal via a penalty against Laos. In January 2024, he signed with the Thai League 1 club Port. Shortly thereafter, he scored a penalty against Vietnam during the 2023 AFC Asian Cup, securing a victory that facilitated Indonesia's progression to the round of 16.
Fast facts
- Born: 4 October 1999
- Birthplace: Makassar, Indonesia
- Primary Position: Right-back
- Senior International Debut: 21 March 2017
- First Indonesian in K League: 2021
- Piala Indonesia Winner: 2019
Questions readers ask
Which K League clubs has Asnawi played for?
He played for Ansan Greeners starting in 2021 and moved to Jeonnam Dragons in 2023.
Did Asnawi score in the 2023 AFC Asian Cup?
Yes, he scored a penalty against Vietnam on 19 January 2024.
