Having assembled possibly their youngest-ever squad for an AFF Suzuki Cup, and with little recent form to judge them on, Indonesia headed into the latest edition of Southeast Asia's premier international tournament very much an unknown quantity.
And curious onlookers were then made to wait a little longer to see them in action, given the Indonesians sat out Monday's opening round of Group B matches.
But as the Indonesians finally began their campaign at Bishan Stadium on Thursday with a thrilling 4-2 win over Cambodia, they gave a clear indication that they could challenge for top honours.
Granted, there is still over half of the group-stage campaign to go and Group B has been labelled as the "Group of Death", with defending champions Vietnam and 2018 runners-up Malaysia also gunning for the two semifinal berths on offer.
Yet, for all the queries over their lack of experience, the raw talent that Indonesia displayed would have been cause for concern for their upcoming opponents, especially given they are likely to only get better as the competition wears on.
Versatile 22-year-old Rachmat Irianto -- deployed in a holding midfield position for this game -- popped up to score twice from corners, while 19-year-old Ramai Rumakiek added a fourth with a sublime curling finish from just inside the area.
Other talented prospects such as right-back Asnawi Mangkualam and attacker Witan Sulaeman also showed glimpses to suggest they could use the tournament as a genuine platform to shine.
Amidst all that youthful endeavour, Indonesia do have a seasoned campaigner pulling the string in midfield in Evan Dimas. Still only 26, the Bhayangkara man -- who netted their second goal of the evening -- is already featuring in his fourth Suzuki Cup and produced an influential display that reinforced the talk that he will be crucial in the Indonesian quest for a maiden title.
"Evan Dimas is our captain with his vast experience," said Indonesia coach Shin Tae-yong, when asked by ESPN just how crucial it is having such a calming influence in the team.
"I have no doubt he will play very well throughout the tournament. His role, both as a player and as our captain, is very important for us to achieve our goals for the tournament."
And just like he did before the tournament began, Shin refused to commit that the target was indeed to go all the way.
Based on their opening display, that may not be completely out of the question. Now they just have to back it up on Sunday against minnows Laos before two pivotal ties against Vietnam and Malaysia follow.