Indonesia vs Japan: Highlights from the Pre-Match Press Conference

Ahead of the crucial World Cup qualifier between Indonesia and Japan, the pre-match press conference was filled with determined and respectful statements from both camps.

Patrick Kluivert (Indonesia Head Coach):
“This is a serious match. We’re playing away against the group leader who has already qualified for the World Cup. So we have to play our own game. It will be a very tough match, everyone knows that. However, we are ready and will do our very best tomorrow.”

“The match will be very difficult, but we will fight with our best ability to achieve a good result.”

“We did not come to Japan to play casually. A positive result is very important to maintain the team’s momentum and mentality ahead of the fourth round.”

“We have already secured a ticket to the fourth round, but I hope the players can give their all. I hope we can end the third round with a good result.”

“I am sure we will show something interesting to prove our quality.”

Kluivert also opened up the possibility of major rotation to give opportunities to less frequently used players, without lowering the target of winning.

Joey Pelupessy (Indonesia Midfielder):
Joey Pelupessy emphasized that all players are ready to work hard and want to prove Indonesia’s quality at the Asian level, especially after securing qualification to the fourth round. He also stated that the win over China and other positive results are extra motivation to play freely and without pressure against Japan.

Hajime Moriyasu (Japan Head Coach):
“Indonesia is a very solid team. They play with discipline and are well-organized.”

“I believe Jay Idzes is a core part of the team. He has performed very well at the back.”

“I don’t think there’s just one player who can be a threat. Several Indonesian players have the ability to score. Therefore, we must be alert to all players, not just one individual.”

Moriyasu stressed that Japan will still play seriously and competitively, even after securing World Cup qualification. “This match will be a unique challenge for us, and I hope we can show our best performance to win tomorrow.”