In a thrilling showcase of talent and determination, Ole Romeny has quickly captured the hearts of Indonesian football fans. The 24-year-old striker, who recently debuted for the Indonesian national team, has already made a significant impact by scoring two goals in just two matches. These performances came during the third round of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers, with one goal against Australia and another against Bahrain.
Romeny’s journey with the national team began on March 20, 2025, when he faced Australia in Sydney. Despite the team suffering a tough 1-5 defeat, Romeny managed to score a goal, showcasing his potential on the international stage. His debut was not just a personal achievement; it also marked a new chapter for Indonesian football as they continue to strive for a spot in the upcoming World Cup.
Following that challenging match, Romeny and his teammates regrouped and delivered a commendable performance against Bahrain on March 25, 2025. The match, held at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta, ended with a narrow 1-0 victory for Indonesia, with Romeny playing a crucial role in securing the win. This victory has kept Indonesia’s hopes alive in the qualifiers, positioning them fourth in Group C with nine points.
In an interview with Dutch media outlet Voetbalzone, Romeny expressed his desire to fully integrate into the Indonesian football culture by learning the language. "We all agreed to use English. As a player from the Netherlands, we want to show respect. That's why I also want to memorize the Indonesian national anthem well and learn the language," he stated. His commitment to understanding and embracing the local culture has endeared him to fans, who appreciate his effort to connect with them beyond the pitch.
Romeny’s eagerness to learn Bahasa Indonesia reflects a broader trend among foreign players in Indonesia, who often take steps to engage with fans and the local community. His ambition to become fluent in the language is not just about communication; it’s also about building rapport with teammates and supporters alike.
As he prepares to return to club football, Romeny is set to rejoin Oxford United, where he will be expected to bring the same level of performance he displayed with the national team. The upcoming match against Middlesbrough on March 29, 2025, will be a critical test for Romeny as he aims to carry his international success into club competitions.
Fans are excited to see how Romeny’s experiences with the national team will influence his play at the club level. His recent performances have not only raised expectations but also provided a much-needed boost to Indonesian football’s visibility on the international stage. The combination of his scoring ability and his willingness to learn the language has made him a fan favorite, and many are eager to see how he will continue to develop as a player.
With the national team’s future in the qualifiers still uncertain, Romeny’s contributions will be vital in the coming matches. The Indonesian squad is looking to build on their recent victory and improve their standing in the group, and Romeny’s goals will be crucial in achieving that goal. As they prepare for their next challenges, the unity and spirit within the team will be tested, and Romeny’s role as a new idol will be closely watched.
In the broader context of Indonesian football, Romeny’s arrival comes at a time when the national team is striving to make a mark on the world stage. The support from fans has been unwavering, and the hope is that players like Romeny can help elevate the team’s performance and bring about a brighter future for Indonesian football.
As the qualifiers progress, the excitement surrounding Ole Romeny continues to grow. His journey from debutant to idol is a testament to the impact that one player can have on a national team. With his determination to learn and succeed, Romeny is not just playing for personal glory but is also embodying the aspirations of a nation eager to showcase its talent on the world stage.
