Indonesia National Team Faces Singapore in FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 Opener: A Defensive Test Without Jay Idzes

The Indonesia national team will begin its campaign in the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 by facing Singapore in the opening Group A match on Friday (25/9/2026) at 20.00 WIB. The match can be watched via live broadcasts on SCTV and Indosiar, as well as the Vidio streaming platform. For the squad under John Herdman, this duel is not merely an opener, but a determinant of the path toward the final.

The competition format, which only sends the group winner to the final, makes every point extremely valuable. Indonesia is required to secure maximum results from the first minute. Failure to secure three points at home could complicate the Garuda's mission, especially if Singapore plays with discipline and relies on quick counterattacks.

The strength of the back line is the main focus. Captain Jay Idzes is confirmed absent due to injury, but coach Herdman still has a stock of quality players to fill that position. Names such as Kevin Diks, Justin Hubner, Elkan Baggott, and Rizky Ridho are ready to guard the defense. The presence of Dion Marx, a debutant called up for this tournament, adds a rotation option in the back sector.

Despite losing the captain, the coaching staff considers Idzes's absence nothing to worry about excessively. Indonesia has better squad depth than in the previous AFF Cup edition. The combination of overseas and local players is expected to maintain defensive solidity. Herdman is likely to apply tight pressing to shut down the opponent's space.

"We are ready to face Singapore. Our focus is to win and start the tournament with a positive record," said John Herdman during a training session at Stadion Madya, Jakarta, Tuesday (22/9/2026).

A total of 21 players took part in the first training session at Stadion Madya, Central Jakarta. Rizky Eka Pratama, who received a late call-up, has joined, completing the squad composition. This session was an opportunity for Herdman to devise strategy and test chemistry among players, especially in the back line that will be key to dismantling Singapore.

From a tactical standpoint, Singapore is known as a tidy and disciplined team. They often trouble Indonesia through counterattacks and set pieces. Therefore, focusing on defense does not mean ignoring attack. The Garuda needs to balance aggression and back-line stability so as not to be caught off guard.

For the Indonesian football public, this match is also a barometer of the team's readiness ahead of the next major tournament. Support from fans in the stadium and at home is expected to provide extra energy. With live broadcasts on two national television stations and digital platforms, public interest is predicted to be high.

If they can overcome Singapore, Indonesia will have valuable capital for the following matches. Conversely, a negative result could force the Garuda squad to work extra hard in the remaining matches. The question is, can Herdman concoct a solid defense without Jay Idzes and secure the first three points?