Indonesian national team: potential and perspectives

Indonesian football is currently in a proud phase of resurgence. Both the senior team and the U23 team have shown significant development over the past two years. The senior national team made history by reaching the fourth round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, while the U23 squad surprised Asia by advancing to the semifinals of the 2024 AFC U23 Asian Cup. The combination of diaspora players, young local talents, and full public support has fueled optimism that the Indonesian National Team is ready to compete on the world stage.

Senior Garuda: Statistics and Stories in World Cup Qualifiers

The journey of the Indonesian National Team in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in the Asian zone is clear evidence of its improving quality. For the first time, Garuda managed to advance to the fourth round after performing solidly in the third round. Out of eight matches, Indonesia collected three wins, two draws, and three losses, with ten goals scored and eleven conceded. Although the goal difference was only -1, the results were enough to take them to the next round.

A memorable triumph came when Indonesia defeated Vietnam twice, 2–0 in Jakarta and 3–0 in Hanoi, results that showcased Garuda’s dominance over their Southeast Asian rivals. The 1–1 draw against Iraq also drew attention, proving that Indonesia is no longer just a complementary team but can compete with Asian giants. This positive performance had a direct impact on the FIFA ranking, with Indonesia now rising to 118th in the world, a leap of almost twenty places compared to 2023.

The key to this success lies in the contributions of core players. Goalkeeper Maarten Paes impressed with three crucial clean sheets, while defender Jay Idzes showed resilience with a high success rate in aerial duels. In midfield, Marselino Ferdinan stood out with his creativity, scoring two important goals and providing several assists. From a tactical perspective, the transition from Shin Tae-yong’s era, which emphasized defensive organization, has now shifted to Patrick Kluivert’s style that prioritizes ball possession and the Dutch brand of football. This change in philosophy adds a new dimension to Garuda’s game.

Young Garuda: Heroic Footprints in Asia

Equally impressive, the Indonesian U23 team also delivered remarkable performances in two major tournaments. At the 2024 AFC U23 Asian Cup in Qatar, Indonesia reached the semifinals before being eliminated by Uzbekistan. In four matches played, they recorded two wins, one draw, and only one loss, scoring six goals and conceding four. The most historic victory came in the quarterfinals when Garuda Muda knocked out South Korea U23 through a dramatic penalty shootout after a draw in normal time.

At the 2023 Asian Games in Hangzhou, the U23 team also looked solid by reaching the quarterfinals. Although they were stopped again by Uzbekistan, the performances of young players such as Ramadhan Sananta, who scored three goals, along with contributions from Witan Sulaeman and Marselino Ferdinan, gave the public strong optimism for the future of Indonesian football. Young defender Rizky Ridho also stood out, proving himself ready to step up as a key player in the senior team.

Harmony of Two Generations: Senior and U23 Strengthening Each Other

One of the greatest strengths of Indonesian football today is the synergy between the senior and U23 teams. Many young players who shone at the U23 level have now become vital parts of the senior squad. Marselino, Witan, and Ridho are clear examples of how regeneration runs smoothly. Their presence injects new energy while maintaining team continuity. This blend is further perfected with the presence of diaspora players such as Calvin Verdonk, Ivar Jenner, and Rafael Struick, who bring experience from European leagues.

Despite such rapid progress, several challenges still need to be addressed. Squad depth remains a homework, particularly in the striker and center-back positions. When key players are absent, the team’s performance often drops significantly. Consistency also needs to be built, as sometimes Garuda can play excellently against big teams but struggle against weaker opponents. In addition, youth development at the domestic level must be taken more seriously, with sustainable junior competitions to ensure a steady flow of local talent.

The Big Dream: 2026 World Cup and 2027 Asian Cup

With the new 2026 World Cup format expanding the number of participants to 48 teams, Indonesia’s chances of qualifying are more open than ever. Although they must face strong opponents in Asia, the opportunity through the play-off route remains realistic. On the other hand, the 2027 Asian Cup could be a medium-term target where Garuda is expected to reach at least the quarterfinals.

Investment in infrastructure is also key. Modern training centers built with FIFA’s support and PSSI’s long-term programs could serve as the foundation for Indonesia to stand alongside Asian powerhouses like Japan and South Korea within the next decade. If consistency is maintained, the Indonesian National Team can not only surprise in Asia but also truly realize the dream of playing at the World Cup.

The performance of the Indonesian National Team in the past two years has brought renewed hope to millions of loyal Garuda supporters. Statistics in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers show significant improvement from the senior team, while the achievements at the U23 Asian Cup demonstrate that regeneration is on the right track. Although challenges remain, the synergy between diaspora players and local talents, along with unwavering support from fans, makes Indonesia’s future in international football look bright.

As long as the red-and-white flag continues to fly in the stadium, Garuda’s spirit will never fade. Now, the dream of appearing at the World Cup is no longer just a fantasy, but a realistic target that is getting closer to becoming reality.