FIFA Series 2026: First Test of Indonesia in the John Herdman Era

February 24, 2026 | 08:48 am

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - PSSI Chairperson Erick Thohir called the 2026 FIFA World Cup Series in Jakarta a crucial opportunity to test the strength of the new Indonesian national team under coach John Herdman ahead of the next international tournament.

The tournament, scheduled for March 27-30, 2026, will be held at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium and will feature four countries from three confederations: Indonesia, Bulgaria (UEFA), the Solomon Islands (OFC), and Saint Kitts and Nevis (CONCACAF).

According to Erick, the diverse playing styles of the opponents will provide valuable experience for the Garuda squad, both in terms of tactics and adapting to international matches. "This event is not only a good test for the new coach John Herdman, but also an opportunity for the national team players to test the different abilities and playing styles of different confederations," said Erick, as quoted by Antara on Monday, February 23, 2026.

Indonesia is scheduled to face Saint Kitts and Nevis in the opening match on March 27 at 8:00 p.m. Western Indonesian Time. Erick believes the potential opponents possess the typical playing style of British football. "In the first match, Indonesia will face St. Kitts and Nevis, a former British colony. Their playing style is heavily influenced by British football and relies heavily on counterattacks," said Erick.

If they win, Indonesia will face the winner of the match between Bulgaria and the Solomon Islands in the final on March 30. The losing team will compete in the third-place play-off.

Erick added that the FIFA Series is a strategic platform for building the team's foundation for the new coaching era and increasing Indonesia's competitiveness at the international level. "I hope the national team under this new coaching era can use this event to rebuild its strength," he said.

2026 FIFA Series Schedule in Jakarta

March 27, 2026

- Bulgaria vs. Solomon Islands (3:30 PM WIB)
- Indonesia vs. St. Kitts and Nevis (8:00 PM WIB)

March 30, 2026

- Third-place play-off (3:30 PM WIB)
- Final (8:00 PM WIB)

Read: FIFA Series 2026: Indonesia to Face Bulgaria, Solomon Islands in March

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