
Indonesia’s quest for World Cup qualification has been a long and challenging journey. Since their first appearance in the 1938 qualifiers, the national team (Timnas) has struggled due to poor management, internal conflicts, and inadequate infrastructure. A major setback occurred in 2015 when FIFA suspended Indonesia, barring them from international competitions. However, efforts to rebuild the team gained momentum in the following years.
A turning point came in 2020 with the appointment of South Korean coach Shin Tae-yong. Under his leadership, Indonesia improved tactically and physically, blending experienced players with young talent. The team made notable progress in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, including a crucial victory against Saudi Arabia in 2024, keeping their hopes alive.
By the end of 2024, Indonesia had reached the third round of the Asian qualifiers, placed in Group C alongside Japan, Australia, Saudi Arabia, China, and Bahrain. Sitting in third place, they remained in contention for a historic World Cup qualification. However, in January 2025, PSSI made a bold decision to replace Shin with Dutch football legend Patrick Kluivert, citing the need for stronger leadership.
Kluivert, supported by a team of Dutch assistants, immediately began preparations for key matches. Indonesia is set to face Australia in Sydney on March 20, 2025, followed by a home game against Bahrain on March 25. The AFC recently rescheduled the Bahrain match to a later time in the evening.
PSSI chairman Erick Thohir reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to World Cup qualification, emphasizing the need for continued government and private sector support. With new leadership and growing momentum, Timnas Indonesia is closer than ever to realizing its dream of competing on football’s biggest stage.