In a thrilling match that showcased not only the skills of the Indonesian national team but also a unique moment of communication, captain Jay Idzes made headlines by using the Indonesian language during a critical point in the game against Bahrain. This incident occurred on March 25, 2025, at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta, as the clock ticked down to the final moments of the match.
As the match approached the 90+2 minute mark, Indonesia found itself in a precarious situation, having to play with only ten players after defender Rizky Ridho suffered an injury and was carried off the field. With the stakes high and Bahrain pressing for an equalizer, coach Patrick Kluivert took decisive action, instructing Idzes to switch the team’s formation to a more defensive 5-3-1 setup.
In a moment captured on camera, Kluivert communicated his tactical change in Dutch, saying "vijf-drie-één" while gesturing with his fingers to convey the formation change. Despite the language barrier, Idzes quickly grasped the directive and relayed it to his teammates in Indonesian, shouting "lima-tiga-satu" twice to ensure clarity among the players on the field.
This unique moment not only highlighted the multicultural makeup of the Indonesian team but also emphasized the importance of clear communication in high-pressure situations. Interestingly, while Idzes, who plays for Venezia, chose to communicate in Indonesian, the team on the field was predominantly composed of players born in the Netherlands. Only two local players, Ricky Kambuaya and Ramadhan Sananta, were among the eleven on the pitch, with Ridho sidelined due to injury.
Idzes’s use of Indonesian during this critical juncture demonstrated his leadership and ability to adapt to the needs of his team, fostering a sense of unity among the players. The tactical shift proved effective, as the Indonesian squad managed to withstand Bahrain's relentless attacks, ultimately securing a vital three-point victory in the World Cup qualifying match.
The match itself was a testament to the growing prowess of the Indonesian national team under Kluivert's guidance. Following the victory, the team celebrated not only the win but also the camaraderie and communication that helped them navigate the challenges of the match.
Fans and analysts alike have praised the team for their resilience and tactical awareness, with many pointing to this game as a pivotal moment in their qualifying campaign for the 2026 World Cup. As the team continues to build on this success, the blend of local and international talent, coupled with effective communication, will be crucial in their upcoming matches.
Moving forward, the Indonesian national team is set to face more formidable opponents in their quest for World Cup qualification. The lessons learned from this match against Bahrain, particularly the importance of communication and tactical flexibility, will undoubtedly play a significant role in their preparation.
In conclusion, Jay Idzes’s decision to communicate in Indonesian during such a crucial moment not only showcased his leadership skills but also highlighted the importance of cultural identity within the team. As Indonesia aims for success on the world stage, moments like these serve as a reminder of the power of teamwork and effective communication in sports.
