The Indonesia national football team faces a crucial World Cup qualifying match against Australia at Allianz Stadium in Sydney today, March 20, 2025. With the stakes high, Indonesia's captain Jay Idzes expressed optimism and readiness, dismissing any pressure as he prepares to lead his team in this historic fixture.
Idzes articulated his mindset during pre-match interactions, stating, "Honestly, I don't feel more pressure, but I feel more support. I think that will be an extra boost. I hope and believe that we can put Indonesia on the competitive map." This sentiment resonates deeply in a match where the outcome could significantly influence Indonesia's bid for a place in the 2026 World Cup.
Currently, Australia sits second in Group C of the AFC qualifiers with 7 points, just a single point ahead of Indonesia, who is in third place with 6 points. The Garuda squad, however, is riding the momentum of a recent 2-0 victory over Saudi Arabia, marked by standout performances from player Marselino Ferdinan, who scored both goals in Jakarta. This victory was Indonesia's first in the current round of qualifying and has given the team renewed hope as they approach the games against their more established rivals.
"I told our new players that we need to give our all as we do in every game we play, to represent our country. That is what I told them: to play for our 280 million people," Idzes emphasized. His leadership will be critical as Indonesia aims to bolster its position in the group standings where the top two teams will qualify directly for the World Cup.
The match is crucial not only for Indonesia but also for the Australian team, the Socceroos, led by head coach Tony Popovic. Australia has four matches left in this qualifying phase, and with fierce competition from five other teams within just a point of each other, every game is essential to secure a direct qualification spot. A loss today could jeopardize their position, thus making it a must-win scenario against Indonesia.
The Socceroos have undergone significant changes since their last match. Popovic has made ten changes to the squad, bringing back experienced players while introducing new talent. Noteworthy inclusions are Jason Davidson, Adam Taggart, Marco Tilio, and Daniel Arzani, who return to the fold after time away from the national squad due to various circumstances. Meanwhile, goalkeeper Tom Glover gets his first senior call-up, having been on the fringes of the team for a while.
In contrast, Indonesia has also seen changes in its lineup, albeit due to injury. Midfielder Egy Maulana is out, along with defenders Asnawi Mangkualam and Elkan Baggott, who have been excluded from the latest selection. Despite these setbacks, Indonesia’s attacking force remains strong with Marselino expected to play a pivotal role in midfield once again.
Kick-off is set for 8:10 PM AEDT (UTC +11), or 5:10 AM ET in the United States, ensuring a simultaneous buildup for fans both locally and abroad. The match will be broadcast live on several platforms including RCTI for Indonesian viewers and others in the international market through Fubo, Fanatiz, and beIN Sports.
With Japan leading the group by a comfortable margin at 16 points, Australia needs to capitalize on their encounter with Indonesia to maintain their standing and keep their World Cup hopes alive. Finishing third in Group C would push both Australia and Indonesia into the fourth round of qualifiers where teams continue to fight for their places on the world stage.
As the two teams collide in this strategic showdown, the atmosphere is expected to be electric, filled with fans eager to witness history in the making—both hoping for a glimmer of World Cup aspirations to shine brighter after the final whistle.
