Indonesian National Team Faces Goalkeeper Crisis Ahead of World Cup Qualifier Against China

Key Absence: Maarten Paes Suspended

The Indonesian national team is facing a critical situation in the goalkeeper position ahead of their 2026 World Cup qualification match against China, scheduled to take place at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium in early June.

The team’s first-choice goalkeeper, Maarten Paes of FC Dallas, has been suspended due to yellow card accumulation. He received his second booking during the recent match against Bahrain, ruling him out of the crucial upcoming fixture.

Emil Audero Under Consideration

National team head coach Patrick Kluivert is now expected to rely on Emil Audero as a potential replacement. However, his availability remains in question as he is still actively competing for Palermo in Serie B.

Urgent Situation With Match Approaching

With the match set to take place at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, the team faces mounting pressure to secure a reliable option in goal. The national team’s technical staff must act swiftly to resolve the situation and ensure stability at the back for one of the most important fixtures in the qualification round.