Kluivert Makes Surprising Decision for Right-Back Position Against China

Ahead of tonight’s World Cup 2026 Qualifier against China, Indonesia national team coach, Patrick Kluivert, has made a surprising tactical choice regarding the right-back position.

The usually reliable Kevin Diks — who just completed a demanding season in the Danish League — has been given rest time. Instead, Yakob Sayuri has been trusted to start in the right-back role.

Naturalized Right-Backs Unavailable

This decision is even more interesting because two other naturalized right-backs are unavailable for the match:

• Sandy Walsh is sidelined due to injury with his club Yokohama F Marinos

• Eliano Reijnders is away due to the birth of his child

Asnawi Mangkualam Omitted from Squad

Another unexpected move from Kluivert is the exclusion of Asnawi Mangkualam from the 23-man match squad, despite the player being a regular starter during Shin Tae-yong’s era.