20.05.2025
Reading time: 2 min

Stefano Lilipaly Called Up to the Indonesian National Team: Experience & Stats as Key Assets in Patrick Kluivert’s Era

Stefano Lilipaly Called Up to the Indonesian National Team: Experience & Stats as Key Assets in Patrick Kluivert’s Era

A surprise emerged when Patrick Kluivert, the new head coach of the Indonesian national team, announced his player list for the upcoming international agenda. One name that immediately caught attention was Stefano Lilipaly — the naturalized player who had been absent from the Garuda squad, now finds himself recalled to the national team.

Amid a major regeneration phase and a fast-paced, European-style tactical setup, Lilipaly’s inclusion sends a clear message: experience still matters on the international stage.

Liga 1 2024/2025 Stats: Not as Sharp, But Still Solid

Despite being in the twilight of his career, Lilipaly’s performance in the domestic league remains relevant. Here are his full stats in the 2024/2025 BRI Liga 1 season:

Statistic 2024/2025 Data
Matches Played 23 games
Goals 5
Assists 4
Key Passes per Game 2.1
Pass Accuracy 85%
Yellow Cards 2
Chances Created 37
SofaScore Average Rating 7.15

These numbers represent a decline from the previous season, where Lilipaly recorded 11 goals and 17 assists in 31 matches, but his contribution in orchestrating the attack remains evident.

Experience Meets Tactical Intelligence

Within Kluivert’s high-pressing, vertical, and fast-transition system, Lilipaly can operate as a tempo controller in the midfield or an alternative playmaker against teams that sit deep in defense.

His experience in major tournaments — AFF Cup, World Cup Qualifiers, and Asian Games — makes him one of the squad’s most battle-tested players mentally and tactically.

A Divisive Return: Still Worthy or Just Sentimental?

Many fans and pundits are asking:
“Is Lilipaly still capable of competing at the highest level?”

Especially in a system that demands pace and dynamism. But coaches consider more than just physical speed — they value vision, positioning, and leadership — qualities that not all young players possess.

A Message to Other Senior Players?

Lilipaly’s return could also be seen as a signal to other senior players:
If your performance and attitude remain consistent, there is still a place for you in the national team — even in a new era.