Indonesia National Team Gears Up: 14 Players Arrive in Jakarta, Debutants Ready to Shine in FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026

Preparations for the Indonesia National Team ahead of the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 have entered a new phase. A total of 14 players have arrived in Jakarta to participate in a training camp, marking the start of a crucial stage before the tournament kicks off from September 25 to October 5, 2026.

The players who have joined include Maarten Paes, Thom Haye, Ragnar Oratmangoen, Jordi Amat, Egy Maulana Vikri, Shayne Pattynama, Rizky Ridho, Nadeo Argawinata, Ivar Jenner, Luke Vickery, Mitchell Baker, Rayhan Hannan, Dion Markx, and Dony Tri Pamungkas. Their presence completes John Herdman's squad, which had previously called up 23 names.

Interestingly, Shayne Pattynama received an additional call-up on September 20, 2026. The Persija Jakarta defender adds to the options in the defense line, especially with the tournament format demanding physical strength and squad depth.

This inaugural edition of the tournament features 14 nations, comprising 11 AFF members plus three invited Asian teams: Bangladesh, Pakistan, and Hong Kong-China. Participants are divided into two tiers: the Premier Division as the highest level and the Challenge Division as the second tier. Indonesia will host Group A of the Premier Division, while Group B, consisting of Vietnam, Pakistan, Thailand, and the Philippines, will compete at Si Jalak Harupat Stadium, Bandung.

The competition format differs from previous regional tournaments. There are no semifinals; the winners of Group A and Group B will directly meet in the final. This competition is also part of the official FIFA calendar, meaning every match result will affect the world ranking of each participating nation.

"The FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 comes with a different format compared to previous regional football tournaments. This competition is part of the official FIFA calendar, so the results of every match will affect the FIFA world ranking of each participating nation," a statement quoted from a source said.

For Indonesia, hosting Group A offers a dual advantage: direct fan support at SUGBK and minimal travel. However, the pressure is also greater as winning the championship is a non-negotiable target in front of their home crowd. Coach John Herdman is tasked with assembling the best possible lineup from the newly joined players, including those who play abroad.

Luke Vickery and Mitchell Baker are two names with the potential to make their debut with the Garuda squad. Both have not yet appeared at the senior level, and this tournament could be an important stepping stone. Their presence adds options in attack and midfield, giving Herdman tactical flexibility.

From a commercial and tourism perspective, this event is predicted to boost hotel occupancy and MSMEs around Jakarta and Bandung. Local governments and organizers have prepared infrastructure, including transportation to the stadiums. Broadcasting rights are also held by several national television stations and digital platforms, ensuring wide reach across Indonesia.

Among the opponents, Malaysia and Singapore are not teams to be underestimated. Both have strong traditions in ASEAN football and often pose challenges for Indonesia. Bangladesh, despite its lower ranking, remains dangerous with a disciplined playing style. The opening match will be crucial for setting the momentum.

The big question is: can the Indonesia National Team leverage its host status and increasingly complete squad to win the inaugural FIFA ASEAN Cup trophy? The answer will unfold during the ten crucial days starting September 25.