Sandy Walsh Shares Mees Hilgers' Feelings After Withdrawing from the Indonesian National Team: The Sadness of Not Debuting at GBK!

Kapanlagi.com - The mainstay defender of the Indonesian National Team, Mees Hilgers, is confirmed to miss two important matches in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers against Japan and Saudi Arabia. This decision was made for Hilgers' health, as he is currently focused on recovering from a hamstring injury he sustained since early November 2024. Although he briefly returned to play with FC Twente against Ajax Amsterdam, Hilgers is not yet fully fit to strengthen the Garuda Squad.

The news of Hilgers' absence has certainly drawn attention and is regretted by many, including his teammate, Sandy Walsh. Walsh stated that although Hilgers feels very disappointed, health remains the top priority for a player who has become a pillar in Indonesia's defense. He also emphasized that Hilgers' absence will not diminish the Indonesian National Team's spirit in facing these crucial matches.

For Hilgers, the opportunity to represent the Indonesian National Team is an invaluable pride. The defender, born on May 13, 2001, has shown his enthusiasm several times to perform in front of the loyal supporters of the homeland. However, he now must face the bitter reality and fully focus on the recovery process so he can return to action on the green field.

1. Hilgers Injury Since Early November 2024

The hamstring injury suffered by Mees Hilgers in early November 2024 became a focal point as he felt physical discomfort while playing against Willem II.

The 23-year-old player had hoped to recover fully, but the efforts of the FC Twente medical team have not been able to restore his performance to its previous condition.

As a result of the injury, Hilgers was forced to miss several crucial matches, including the game against OGC Nice in the Europa League. This decision was made to ensure that he could fully recover and return to action with a more impressive performance.

2. Back on the Field Against Ajax Amsterdam

In an exciting match against Ajax Amsterdam on November 10, 2024, Hilgers finally returned to the field with FC Twente, although his performance showed signs of struggle.

With a burning spirit, he tried to contribute as much as possible, but it was evident that he had not fully recovered, even having to hobble on the field.

Despite trying to ignore the pain and holding on until the 84th minute, the FC Twente coach wisely decided to take him out to prevent a more serious injury. This decision reflects the team's concern for the player's health, even though Hilgers' heart surely wanted to keep fighting.

3. Hilgers' Absence in the Match Against Japan and Saudi Arabia

After an exciting match against Ajax, FC Twente announced disappointing news for Indonesian national team fans: Hilgers will not strengthen the team in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Japan and Saudi Arabia.

The club's official announcement stated that Hilgers' name was not on the list of players who would compete in the international matches. His absence is certainly regrettable, especially since the matches against Japan and Saudi Arabia will take place at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium in Jakarta, and are an important part of the third round of Group C.

His teammate in the national team, Sandy Walsh, emphasized that this decision was made for Hilgers' health, although it still leaves a sense of sorrow in the hearts of the supporters.

4. Expressions of Disappointment and Support from Teammates

Sandy Walsh, the main defender of the Indonesian national team, expressed the sadness felt by Hilgers after he had to miss the chance to appear before loyal supporters at SUGBK. "His injury is quite complicated, especially since these are two crucial matches where he was supposed to make his debut," Walsh explained.

Despite the disappointment, he stressed the importance of health for a professional athlete. "We must respect his decision," he added.

However, Walsh is optimistic that the solid Indonesian national team squad is ready to fill Hilgers' position and is determined to deliver their best performance even without the presence of that highly anticipated teammate.

5. Hilgers Must Miss Debut at SUGBK

The match against Japan was supposed to be a historic moment for Hilgers, who was ready to make his debut at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium—a place he has always dreamed of as a stage to represent the Indonesian National Team.

With fiery spirit and overwhelming pride, Hilgers was eager to take action in front of thousands of Red-White supporters. However, unfortunately, the lingering injury forced him to take a wise step by prioritizing recovery.

This decision is not only for his current health but also to ensure he can perform at his best in the future.

(kpl/rmt)