List of 28 Players of the Indonesian National Team to Face Japan and Saudi Arabia, Ready to Fight for the World Cup

Kapanlagi.com - The Indonesian national team squad is now stronger as they approach important matches against Japan and Saudi Arabia! Coach Shin Tae-yong has just added one new player to the list, namely Kevin Diks. With this addition, the number of players called up for the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers in the Asian zone has now reached 28.

Kevin Diks, a talented defender with Indonesian-Dutch blood, has just completed his naturalization process and officially became an Indonesian citizen after taking an oath in Denmark on Friday (8/11/2024).

Now, he is ready to wear the Red and White jersey and fight in two highly anticipated matches at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (SUGBK), Jakarta. The first match will take place against Japan on Friday (15/11/2024), followed by a fierce duel against Saudi Arabia on Tuesday (19/11/2024).

The presence of Kevin Diks is a breath of fresh air for the Indonesian national team, especially as Coach Shin Tae-yong has to face the reality that Mees Hilgers cannot be fielded due to injury. The Chairman of PSSI, Erick Thohir, emphasized that this additional strength in the defense line is vital to strengthen the Indonesian national team ahead of these crucial matches.

1. Kevin Diks Officially Joins the Indonesian National Team

Kevin Diks is now officially part of the Indonesian national team after taking an oath as an Indonesian citizen, changing his status from just a player of descent to a new hero ready to fight on the international stage. The smooth administrative process that took place on Friday (11/8/2024) in Denmark marks the first step for Diks to wear the Red and White jersey.

The PSSI is also working hard to ensure that Diks can play against Japan on November 15, 2024, despite the challenge of the player registration closing set for H-7 before the match. With determination and speed, the PSSI is committed to accelerating all processes so that Diks can quickly showcase his abilities on the field.

2. Challenges of the Indonesian National Team in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers

The Indonesian national team is preparing with burning enthusiasm to face two crucial matches in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers for the Asian zone. On November 15, 2024, they will compete against Japan at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (SUGBK), Jakarta, in the fifth match of Group C filled with hope.

Not only that, but on November 19, 2024, Indonesia will also host Saudi Arabia in the sixth match, which is equally important. Under the guidance of coach Shin Tae-yong, the Indonesian national team is optimistic thanks to the presence of new player Kevin Diks in the defense, who is expected to provide a fresh touch.

Meanwhile, the absence of Mees Hilgers, who was previously injured, opens up opportunities for Diks to showcase his abilities and help the team achieve the best possible results.

3. Changes in the Indonesian National Team Squad: New Players and Players Dropped

Coach Shin Tae-yong made a bold move by calling up five new faces to the Indonesian national team squad for the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. Among these fresh names are Yakob Sayuri, Yance Sayuri, Muhammad Riyandi, Ramadhan Sananta, and Justin Hubner, chosen based on their outstanding performances and the team's urgent needs, especially to cope with the absence of several veteran players due to injuries.

Meanwhile, five players who were previously called up to face Bahrain and China have unfortunately been dropped, including Asnawi Mangkualam, Malik Risaldi, Ernando Ari, Dimas Drajad, and Wahyu Prasetyo, although Asnawi has recovered. Shin Tae-yong's decision marks a bold step in seeking the best combination to achieve optimal results on the world stage.

4. Complete List of the Indonesian National Team Squad

The Indonesian national team is ready to face a great challenge in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers with an impressive squad! Coach Shin Tae-yong has selected the best players to fight against Japan on November 15, 2024, and Saudi Arabia on November 19, 2024.

In goal, there are Nadeo Argawinata from Borneo FC and Maarten Paes from FC Dallas, while the defense is filled with talents like Jay Idzes and Jordi Amat. In midfield, creative midfielders such as Thom Haye and Ricky Kambuaya are ready to orchestrate the attack, while a sharp line of forwards, including Egy Maulana and Witan Sulaeman, will strive to score goals.

With a combination of experience and youthful spirit, this squad is expected to deliver their best performance and make new history for Indonesian football!

5. World Cup Targets for the Indonesian National Team

Erick Thohir, as the Chairman of PSSI, enthusiastically announced that all Indonesian national teams, both senior and age-group, now have a great ambition to reach the World Cup. In a thorough evaluation, he emphasized that every coach is required to work hard to bring their team to the world stage.

Especially for coach Shin Tae-yong, who currently leads the senior national team, he is expected to guide Indonesia to advance far in the qualifiers. Erick stressed that this achievement is part of PSSI's long-term strategy to improve the quality of the national team. With a burning spirit and a more solid squad, Indonesia is optimistic about realizing this great dream.

(kpl/rmt)