FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026: Luciano Leandro Picks Nadeo Argawinata, Not Paes or Audero

Ahead of the opening match of the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 against Singapore at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, Jakarta, on Friday (25/9/2026), the debate over who should be the Indonesia national team's first-choice goalkeeper has resurfaced. National football observer Luciano Leandro firmly backs Nadeo Argawinata as the first pick, ahead of two closely competing names: Maarten Paes and Emil Audero.

Luciano made the statement to Bola.com on Tuesday (22/9/2026). According to him, although Paes and Audero have strong quality—Paes now plays for Ajax Amsterdam, while Audero plays for Rayo Vallecano—momentum and recent form are decisive. "If the match were held today, I would pick Nadeo," he said.

His reasoning is not without basis. Nadeo impressed with Persija Jakarta in the first three matches of the BRI Super League 2026/2027. The peak came when he recorded nine saves and a clean sheet against Borneo FC. "What I look at is not just the number of saves, but concentration, courage in making decisions, and the ability to read the direction of the opponent's attacks," Luciano explained.

Luciano, who once played for PSM Makassar and Persija, stressed that choosing the starting goalkeeper must not be based solely on big names or experience in Europe. "I would pick the goalkeeper who is in the best momentum and has high confidence," he said. He also noted that the competition among the three goalkeepers is a blessing for the Indonesia national team. "John Herdman has a big advantage because he has three quality goalkeepers. This is positive," he added.

Even so, Luciano reminded that the final decision remains in Herdman's hands. According to him, determining the starter must take into account form, physical condition, the opponent's character, and the tactical needs of that match. "Indonesia does not lack quality goalkeepers. The challenge is choosing the one who is most ready in terms of performance and mentality on match day," he concluded.

For the Indonesian football public, this debate reflects squad depth that is rarely seen. The presence of Paes and Audero, who play in European leagues, adds a new dimension, while Nadeo proves that the domestic competition can also produce a class goalkeeper. Herdman's decision later will signal the direction of his technical policy: whether he prioritizes international experience or recent form in the domestic league.

What is clear is that the match against Singapore will be an early test. If Nadeo is chosen and performs solidly, his position could become even stronger. Conversely, if Paes or Audero is given the nod, the competition will become even more open. One thing is certain: the Indonesia national team no longer lacks options between the posts.