Indonesian Coach Herdman Nervous Ahead of Meeting President Prabowo

Indonesian national football team coach John Herdman admitted to feeling nervous ahead of his inaugural meeting with President Prabowo Subianto at his residence in Hambalang, Bogor on Friday. Despite his extensive international coaching experience, Herdman confessed to trembling before the encounter.

"Yes, of course I'm trembling," Herdman told reporters before meeting the president. He described the opportunity to meet Indonesia's leader as an extraordinary moment and a great honor, especially since taking charge of the "Garuda" squad.

Herdman expressed high hopes that the meeting would serve as a significant morale booster for his team. He emphasized the crucial need for the president's commitment and moral support. "I think always the president, his desire, his spirit, and also his support," Herdman stated when asked about the kind of backing he seeks.

The coach believes that the president's leadership and passion for Indonesia will provide a strong mental foundation for the players. "I think his leadership and his passion for Indonesia are important for our players to know that we have our leader behind us," Herdman said. He hopes this motivation will pave the way for the team's long-term ambitions, including qualifying for the 2030 World Cup. To achieve this dream, Herdman urged all Indonesian football fans to unite and offer positive energy to the squad, stating, "We will need everyone's support."