Rizky Ridho Sees Bali Training Camp as Answer to Indonesia Team Cohesion, Herdman Prepares Seven-Day Program

The Indonesia national team has chosen Bali as the location for its training camp during the November 2026 FIFA Matchday period. The decision was welcomed by defender Rizky Ridho, who believes seven days together on the Island of the Gods will strengthen bonds between players amid uncertainty over the international friendly schedule.

Rizky said the option of a training camp in Bali emerged from an agreement between the players and the coaching staff. Previously, PSSI had explored matches against Jordan and Kuwait, as well as the option of a training camp in Cyprus and a match in Turkey. However, those plans fell through because there was no certainty regarding opponents or venues. "So maybe this is the solution, so we can get closer to each other. The training camp is in Bali," Rizky said at a press conference after the Persija Jakarta versus Persebaya Surabaya match at Jakarta International Stadium, Saturday (7/11/2026) night WIB.

The decision was also influenced by the postponement of the AFC Asian Cup and the escalating situation in the Middle East. The conditions meant that match agendas originally planned in the region were cancelled. PSSI then shifted focus to a training camp in Bali as a substitute for international friendlies.

Indonesia head coach John Herdman stressed that the training camp in Bali remains strategic even without an international match. According to him, the period will be used to strengthen squad depth and continue preparations for the World Cup Qualifiers. "We will involve a combination of players from the main squad and a number of new players. This is an opportunity to evaluate their potential, deepen their understanding of tactics, and strengthen cooperation between players in the national team," Herdman said.

For Herdman, seven days in Bali is not merely a substitute for a friendly match. He wants to use every session to assess the quality of new players, deepen tactical understanding, and build closer cooperation. This approach aligns with the needs of the Indonesia national team, which is preparing for its next international agenda, including the World Cup Qualifiers.

"So, we ask for understanding, because they (the coaching staff and PSSI) have also worked hard to find opponents for us," Rizky Ridho added.

From the players' side, Rizky Ridho highlighted the importance of cohesion as a primary asset. He hopes the training camp in Bali can serve as a venue for getting to know each other better, especially for players who have just joined. According to him, chemistry between players will greatly determine the team's performance on the pitch.

PSSI itself targets this training camp to maintain continuity of preparations even without international friendlies. With players gathering over a relatively short period, it is hoped that better solidarity and a more even understanding of tactics will be created. Bali was chosen not only for geographical reasons but also to create a conducive atmosphere so players can focus on the training program.

Going forward, the effectiveness of the Bali training camp will be tested when the Indonesia national team returns to competitive action. The public awaits whether seven days together on the Island of the Gods is enough to build the foundation of a competitive team, or whether it raises questions about the need for quality friendlies before the World Cup Qualifiers get underway.