Indonesia vs Singapore in FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026: Squad Value Gap Reaches Sixfold
Baca dalam 60 detik
- Total valuasi 23 pemain Timnas Indonesia yang dipanggil John Herdman menyentuh Rp375,18 miliar, berbanding Rp59,10 miliar milik Singapura.
- Kevin Diks menjadi pemain termahal di skuad Garuda dengan estimasi Rp86,91 miliar, nyaris menyamai gabungan seluruh kekuatan The Lions.
- Absennya kapten Jay Idzes yang bernilai Rp243,34 miliar berpotensi menekan dominasi pasar Indonesia, meski secara kualitas skuad tetap jauh di atas Singapura.
Ahead of the opening match of Group A of the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 Main Division at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, Friday (26/9/2026), the quality gap between the Indonesian and Singapore national teams is evident from player market values. The total value of the 23 players called up by coach John Herdman reaches Rp375.18 billion, while the 23 names selected by Gavin Lee are valued at only Rp59.10 billion—a difference of more than sixfold.
The difference is not merely statistics. Most Indonesian players ply their trade in European and East Asian leagues, such as Kevin Diks (Rp86.91 billion), Emil Audero (Rp48.67 billion), and Calvin Verdonk (Rp43.45 billion). Meanwhile, Singapore relies on players who mostly play in the domestic competition, with Harhys Stewart (Rp6.08 billion) as the highest asset.
Interestingly, this match is held in the middle of the FIFA calendar so both teams can field their best strength. However, Indonesia's advantage does not necessarily guarantee victory. Because captain Jay Idzes, valued at Rp243.34 billion, must be absent due to injury. The loss of Idzes makes the total valuation of the Merah Putih squad drop significantly, though still far above Singapore.
This comparison also highlights the difference in development approaches. Indonesia aggressively sends players abroad and utilizes the diaspora route, while Singapore still relies on the domestic competition. Nevertheless, football is not played on paper. Tactical factors, chemistry, and mentality still determine the result on the pitch.
"Market value is only an initial indicator. The most important thing is how players translate individual quality into team strength," said a national football observer, responding to the comparison.
For the Indonesian public, this match is not just about prestige. A victory over Singapore will be important capital to build confidence in the regional tournament, as well as prove that investment in players abroad bears real fruit. Conversely, a defeat will trigger questions about the effectiveness of an expensive strategy.
On the other hand, Singapore comes without burden. As the team with the lowest valuation, they can play freely and try to surprise the hosts. Coach Gavin Lee is likely to apply a tight defensive tactic and rely on counterattacks.
The question is, will this stark market value gap be reflected on the scoreboard? Or on the contrary, can Singapore prove that player price is not everything? The answer will be seen at SUGBK tonight.
