Patrick Kluivert limits Liga 1 selections for Indonesia national team

Coach Patrick Kluivert has shown high selectivity in choosing Liga 1 players for the Indonesia national team—only three players from the domestic competition received playing time in recent matches against Australia and Bahrain.

The Dutch coach’s strategy is evident from the squad composition—from eight Liga 1 players called up after Egy Maulana Vikri suffered an injury, only a small portion saw action on the field.

Rizky Ridho was the only Liga 1 player trusted as a starter—appearing in the lineup against Bahrain, where Indonesia secured a 1-0 victory.

Ridho’s solid defensive display earned praise from fans, reinforcing his importance in the squad despite the limited inclusion of domestic league players.

Kluivert’s preference for overseas-based players highlights Indonesia’s efforts — to raise competitiveness on the international stage.

With crucial World Cup qualifiers ahead, the coach is expected to maintain his strict selection policy, favoring those who can match the intensity of top-tier football.