Herdman Prepares 44 Players for Indonesia's National Team in FIFA Matchday

The Indonesian national football team, affectionately known as Garuda, has unveiled an expanded preliminary squad of 44 players in preparation for the crucial FIFA Matchday fixtures scheduled for June 2026. This significant announcement, made via the team's official Instagram account, signals the commencement of intensive preparations under the guidance of head coach John Herdman.

The selected players are slated to face Oman on June 5 and Mozambique on June 9, both matches to be held at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium in Jakarta. The roster includes a blend of established stars and emerging talents, with notable inclusions such as Maarten Paes, Jay Idzes, Marselino Ferdinan, and Beckham Putra, many of whom ply their trade in European leagues. Herdman emphasized that these matches are vital stepping stones towards the team's larger ambitions, particularly the goal of qualifying for the World Cup and the 2027 Asian Cup.

“

The opportunity for European players to join in the ASEAN Cup was there, but their clubs would not allow it. FIFA rules are FIFA rules.

Herdman clarified that the squad for the FIFA Matchday will be distinct from the team designated for the ASEAN Hyundai Cup 2026 (Piala ASEAN 2026). For the regional tournament commencing in late July, the focus will shift to players active in domestic and Southeast Asian leagues. This strategic approach aims to maximize player development and ensure readiness across different competitive platforms. The coach highlighted that while European-based players are integral, club release rules for the ASEAN Cup necessitate a different selection strategy, underscoring the team's commitment to both international and regional aspirations.

“

We will use domestic players, and that is important for me because our main goal is the World Cup and the 2027 Asian Cup.