AFF Cup 2026: Can Indonesia end runner-up curse under Herdman?

The ASEAN Hyundai Cup 2026, commonly known as the AFF Cup 2026, presents a significant opportunity for the Indonesian national football team to end their long wait for a Southeast Asian championship. Following their failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, the Garuda squad is now focusing its efforts on securing the regional title, which has eluded them thus far.

Expectations are high among Indonesian football fans. Under the guidance of English coach John Herdman, the team boasts a more mature squad composition. The blend of quality local players and a roster of naturalized talent is considered among the strongest in Southeast Asia. However, Herdman is managing expectations, emphasizing his primary focus on building a solid team foundation and progressing as far as possible in the tournament.

On paper, Indonesia is a strong contender for the championship. The path to the trophy, however, will be challenging. The biggest hurdle in the group stage is expected to be Vietnam, a team that has dominated Southeast Asian football in recent years. Herdman acknowledges Vietnam as their toughest opponent in Group A, citing their stability and established playing style under a long-term coach.

Despite the strong competition, Indonesia's chances of reaching the semifinals remain high. Teams like Cambodia and Timor Leste are considered to be of lower caliber, while Singapore is undergoing a rebuilding phase. The opening match against Cambodia is deemed crucial, as a victory is expected to boost the confidence of Marselino Ferdinan and his teammates before facing Vietnam in a match anticipated to decide the Group A winner. Positive momentum also comes from recent international friendlies, where Indonesia, under Herdman, secured victories against Oman and Mozambique, indicating a successful adaptation to the coach's playing philosophy.

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Vietnam is the toughest opponent in Group A.