Indonesian national team benefits from 2026 World Cup format change

British media outlet The Guardian analyzes Indonesian National Team’s journey to the 2026 World Cup — a historic achievement by reaching the fourth round of Asian zone qualifiers.

Patrick Kluivert’s team finished fourth in Group C of the third round — the furthest achievement ever recorded by the Garuda team in World Cup qualification history.

The 2026 World Cup format change opens greater opportunities for Asian teams. While AFC previously received only five representatives, it now increases to 8.5 participant slots.

“Asia benefits from World Cup expansion with AFC Qualifiers showing excitement,” writes correspondent John Duerden in The Guardian.

Before the format change, Asia’s five slots were typically filled by established nations such as:

• Australia
• Iran
• Japan
• Saudi Arabia
• South Korea