As the Indonesian national team gears up for a crucial clash against Australia in the third round of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers, all eyes are on new coach Patrick Kluivert. The match, set to take place at the Sydney Football Stadium on March 20, 2025, is a pivotal moment for Indonesia, who hopes to solidify its standing in Group C of the Asian qualifiers.
Having taken the helm in January 2025, Kluivert expressed confidence in his players’ abilities to adapt to his coaching style. "From what we did, I have a pretty good picture," he mentioned during a press conference held on March 19, just one day prior to the big game. He emphasized that despite limited training time together, the squad's cohesion has significantly improved. "Most importantly for tomorrow's match, I am very happy with the players in my team," he noted.
The upcoming match holds substantial weight, especially considering Indonesia's historical struggle to qualify for the World Cup finals. The nation has not reached this milestone since gaining independence in 1945. As it stands, Indonesia is currently third in Group C, trailing only one point behind Australia, who sits second. With both teams resilient in their efforts, Kluivert's squad aims to prove itself against a formidable opponent.
Indonesia captain Jay Idzes, who plays for Venezia in Italy, spoke about the team’s enhanced quality resulting from the integration of new naturalized and local players. "Even though we have only been together for a few days, the atmosphere has been good. I am confident that we have integrated well into the Indonesian national team," Idzes remarked.
While Indonesia ranks 127th in FIFA standings, Australia is positioned at 26th. The Garuda squad is considered the underdog for the match, as highlighted by Idzes in statements where he acknowledged Australia’s superior technique and physicality. However, he also pointed out Indonesia’s recent improvements, having previously drawn against the Australian team and achieved a notable victory over Saudi Arabia.
Indonesian football analyst Mohammad Kusnaeni predicted that Kluivert is unlikely to make drastic changes prior to the match. The players gathered only two days before traveling to Sydney, limiting time for tactical adjustments. As to the formation strategy, Kusnaeni explained, "The changes can only be in the formation from 3-4-3 to 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1... it is possible for Kluivert to keep the 3-4-3 formation inherited from Shin Tae-yong.” He suggested that a draw would be a positive outcome for the Indonesian team.
Kluivert, however, wishes to build on the players' existing strengths instead of introducing extensive changes. He also refrained from being influenced by Australia's injury situation, wherein eight key players are currently sidelined, including Harry Souttar and Jordan Bos. “Star players who are absent have no impact because everyone is aware that important players are in the squad,” Kluivert explained. This statement underscores Kluivert’s respect for the opposing team, indicating that Australia still possesses a roster filled with talent.
Further adding to the optimism of Indonesia’s fans, Idzes reaffirmed the team’s determination to emerge as a competitive force, with a specific focus on notching a victory in upcoming matches. “The answer is in tomorrow's match. We have proven ourselves for the past year that Indonesia should be a respected country against Australia or other countries, including Saudi Arabia,” he declared. With the stakes so high, Indonesia is eager to prove its mettle as they chase direct Qualification for the World Cup.
With Indonesia striving to enhance its international reputation, the question remains whether Kluivert's strategies and the players' preparations will coalesce into a successful performance against the Socceroos. Coach Tony Popovic emphasized on the eve of the match that Australia is prepared for any challenges posed by Kluivert’s first foray into international management. “We’ve analyzed Indonesia, we know there’s a new coach, we don’t know how he will set up,” Popovic stated, acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding Kluivert's approach.
The match is anticipated to be a tight affair, as both teams are not just fighting for points but also for their aspirations toward the 2026 World Cup. This ramped-up competitive spirit is sure to ignite a thrilling atmosphere, one where the hopes of a nation rest squarely on the shoulders of its players. As the countdown to match day begins, fans, analysts, and players alike are left to ponder: will Indonesia finally secure a victory against Australia and pave their way to World Cup glory?
