Indonesia Aims for Top Players at 2026 FIFA ASEAN Cup

Indonesia is gearing up to host the 2026 FIFA ASEAN Cup, with Football Association chair Erick Thohir expressing confidence that the nation's star players will be available to compete. The tournament's official FIFA status is seen as a key factor in enabling national team members to participate, a prospect that excites officials hoping for peak performance from the "Garuda" team.

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All the best players will definitely be able to play. And we certainly hope they can achieve maximum performance.

Thohir, who also serves as Minister of Youth and Sports, acknowledged that team composition will adapt to pre-tournament dynamics. While aiming for optimal physical condition among players, he stressed the need for preparedness in case of injuries, ensuring the host nation can still field a strong team. "As the host, we are hoping for the national team to perform well," he stated.

The 2026 FIFA ASEAN Cup is scheduled from September 23 to October 3. Indonesia will host the Premier Division, featuring eight teams including Malaysia, India, and Singapore in Group A, alongside the host. The Challenge Division will be held in Hong Kong. A new format where group stage winners advance directly to the finals makes every match critical from the outset.

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But as the host, we are hoping for the national team to perform well. This is certainly what we hope for.

Beyond team preparations, host cities Bandung and Jakarta are finalizing stadium readiness. West Java Provincial Secretary Herman Suryatman confirmed their commitment, drawing on experience from hosting the 2023 FIFA U-17 World Cup. Training facilities are also being prepared, with contingency plans in place to ensure a smooth event.

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We are ready to serve as hosts in synergy with our colleagues from Jakarta.