Indonesia Faces Tough Challenge in 2026 World Cup Qualifiers

The Indonesian national team, now under the leadership of Dutch coach Patrick Kluivert, is gearing up for a major challenge in the fourth round of the AFC 2026 World Cup Qualifiers.

The Garuda squad is just 180 minutes away from a historic ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but must first top Group B in the decisive group stage to be held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

Ragnar Oratmangoen and his teammates are set to face stiff competition from host nation Saudi Arabia and regional powerhouse Iraq — two teams with deeper experience and proven track records in international tournaments.

Off the pitch, non-technical issues have also become a major concern for the coaching staff, particularly regarding limited recovery time between matches. Based on the official kick-off schedule for all group participants, Indonesia is in the least favorable position when it comes to rest and recovery periods.

This situation will require precise rotation strategies and optimal physical preparation. Kluivert has acknowledged that tactical decisions and squad management will be critical if Indonesia is to remain competitive throughout the demanding group phase.

Despite the uphill battle, the team carries the hopes of an entire nation. With growing confidence and a fighting spirit, Indonesia continues its pursuit of a historic debut on football’s biggest stage.