FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 Opens at SUGBK, 46 Players Line Up at Center of the Pitch
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- FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 resmi bergulir di Stadion Utama Gelora Bung Karno, Jakarta, dengan pertandingan pembuka Indonesia vs Singapura.
- Upacara pembukaan menampilkan pertunjukan seni dan musik, serta penyerahan trofi oleh perwakilan FIFA kepada PSSI.
- Pelatih Indonesia, John Herdman, menurunkan formasi yang menggabungkan pemain senior dan debutan untuk menghadapi Singapura.
The FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 was officially opened on Friday (25/9/2026) evening WIB at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, Jakarta. The opening ceremony was lively, featuring a fireworks display and Indonesian cultural arts performances. Two well-known singers, Agnes Monica and Isyana Sarasvati, also performed at the event. A notable moment came when 46 players from the Indonesia and Singapore national teams lined up at the center of the pitch before singing their respective national anthems, a sight reminiscent of the 2026 World Cup.
The opening match of Group A Division 1 pits Indonesia against Singapore, with kick-off scheduled for 20.00 WIB. Before the match began, the FIFA ASEAN Cup trophy was handed over to PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir, accompanied by FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafström. Several former footballers from participating countries were also present, including Kurniawan Dwi Yulianto and Ponaryo Astaman from Indonesia, Safiq Rahim from Malaysia, and Baihakki Khaizan from Singapore.
Indonesia national team coach John Herdman has announced the starting eleven for the match against Singapore. Maarten Paes is trusted to guard the goal. In the back line, with Jay Idzes absent, Herdman fielded Kevin Diks, Elkan Baggott, and Justin Hubner. A debut was given to Luke Vickery, while Mitchell Baker leads the attack supported by Ole Romeny and Ragnar Oratmangoen. Indonesia's line-up: Maarten Paes; Kevin Diks, Elkan Baggott, Justin Hubner, Luke Vickery; Joey Pelupessy, Calvin Verdonk, Dean James; Ole Romeny, Ragnar Oratmangoen, Mitchell Baker.
"We are ready to give our best for Indonesia. The supporters' backing will be extra energy," said John Herdman in a pre-match press conference.
Indonesia's participation in the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 is a proving ground for the young squad currently being built. The presence of debutants such as Luke Vickery shows the coach's trust in new talent. In addition, the tournament is an opportunity for Indonesia to gauge its strength at the regional level ahead of bigger competitions. Support from the fans at SUGBK is expected to lift the players' spirits.
On the organizing side, Indonesia has been entrusted to host the opening of this prestigious tournament. This is inseparable from the football infrastructure that continues to be improved, including SUGBK's readiness as an international-standard venue. Success in hosting the opening can enhance Indonesia's image in the eyes of FIFA and other ASEAN countries. PSSI hopes this momentum can drive the national team's achievements while strengthening Indonesia's position in the Southeast Asian football map.
Going forward, the result of the opening match will be an early indicator of Indonesia's ambitions in this tournament. If they can secure a win over Singapore, Indonesia's path to the next round will be more open. However, challenges from other teams in Group A must still be watched. Will Indonesia seize this opportunity to show dominance on home soil? The country's football public awaits the answer.
