Indonesia U-16 women's football team begins training camp for Srikandi Merdeka Cup

Indonesia's U-16 women's national football team is set to commence its training camp on July 24, 2026, at the Supersoccer Arena in Kudus, Central Java. This intensive preparation is geared towards the upcoming Srikandi Merdeka Cup 2026, an international tournament scheduled to take place from August 14 to August 23.

Coach Timo Scheunemann stated that players called up for the training camp have been identified from the Hydroplus Soccer League (HSL) All-Stars 2025/2026 and other potential talents outside the competition. The initial training group will be larger than the final squad, with the coaching staff planning to divide the players into two distinct teams, each comprising 23 players, for the Srikandi Merdeka Cup.

Scheunemann explained that this approach provides the coaching staff with a wider selection of players to choose from, ensuring the best possible lineup represents Indonesia. Assistant coach Takumi Taniguchi will also be involved in managing one of the U-16 squads. Internal matches between the two selected teams will form part of the evaluation process, with potential friendly matches against boys' teams also considered to enhance the players' performance and readiness for international competition.

The Srikandi Merdeka Cup 2026 will feature eight teams from seven countries, including Saudi Arabia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Jordan, and host nation Indonesia. As the host, Indonesia has the privilege of fielding two teams, offering a valuable platform for these young players to gain international experience and contribute to the development of women's football in the country.