Indonesia national team chooses Kuwait and Lebanon as friendly match opponents

Erick Thohir, Chairman of PSSI, announced that Indonesia national team will face Kuwait and Lebanon in international friendly matches in September 2025 — as preparation for the fourth round of 2026 World Cup Qualifiers Asian zone.

Although match locations are yet to be determined, playing at away venues could serve as proper simulation for the Garuda squad — considering the challenges ahead in the next qualification round.

The selection of these two teams is not without reason — their playing characteristics are similar to Indonesia’s five potential opponents in round four:

• Oman
• Iraq
• United Arab Emirates
• Saudi Arabia
• Qatar

These friendly matches are expected to help Indonesia national team adapt to the playing style of Middle Eastern teams.