Irfan Bachdim backs Japan at World Cup 2026

Former Indonesian national team player Irfan Bachdim has declared his support for Japan in the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Bachdim shared his prediction during the opening of the adidas Home of Football store in Pondok Indah Mall 3, South Jakarta.

Bachdim, who has experience playing in Japan's league with Ventforet Kofu and Consadole Sapporo, expressed his admiration for Japan's footballing progress. "Japan has come from a very long journey. Maybe they weren't very good before, but seeing how they created structure within Japan and recognized youth football, and now have players all over the world playing extraordinarily well," he stated.

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Japan has come from a very long journey. Maybe they weren't very good before, but seeing how they created structure within Japan and recognized youth football, and now have players all over the world playing extraordinarily well.

Japan, making its eighth World Cup appearance since 1998, is drawn in Group F alongside the Netherlands, Sweden, and Tunisia. While their best performance to date is reaching the round of 16, Bachdim believes Wataru Endo and his teammates can advance further this year. "Everyone knows I was born and raised in the Netherlands, they are in the same group, but honestly, I think Japan can top the group and go very far," added Bachdim, who has earned 40 caps for the Indonesian national team, scoring 11 goals.

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Everyone knows I was born and raised in the Netherlands, they are in the same group, but honestly, I think Japan can top the group and go very far.

In contrast, Persija Jakarta player Arlyansyah Abdulmanan is backing Argentina, led by Lionel Messi. Argentina, the reigning champions, are in Group J with Algeria, Austria, and Jordan. "I am a Messi supporter and I think this jersey (away) has a good design. And Argentina won the World Cup last time, right? So I really like wearing this jersey. So I am indeed supporting Argentina to win," said the 20-year-old player.

The 2026 World Cup is scheduled to commence with a match between Mexico and South Africa at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City on Friday, June 12, at 02:00 WIB.

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I am a Messi supporter and I think this jersey (away) has a good design. And Argentina won the World Cup last time, right? So I really like wearing this jersey. So I am indeed supporting Argentina to win.