John Herdman Says Indonesia Is Ready for the 2026 FIFA Series

January 23, 2026 | 09:25 pm

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Coach of the Indonesian national team, John Herdman, stated that the Garuda squad is ready to participate in the 2026 FIFA Series which will be held in Jakarta during the FIFA Matchday period, March 23-31, 2026. "Our preparation is going very well. The process is underway. I also have some experience with Saint Kitts and Nevis from my time in CONCACAF," said Herdman after the announcement of the collaboration between Kelme and Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) in Kebayoran Baru, South Jakarta, on Friday, January 23, 2026.

Indonesia is grouped with three countries from different confederations, namely Bulgaria (UEFA), the Solomon Islands (OFC), and Saint Kitts and Nevis (CONCACAF). The Garuda team is scheduled to play two matches, with the opening match against Saint Kitts and Nevis. All group stage matches will take place in Jakarta.

Herdman views the opportunity to face Bulgaria as an interesting challenge. He mentioned that Bulgaria currently has a new coach. "They are a team that has achieved good results years ago and now they have a new coach," said Herdman.

The coach referred to is Aleksandar Dimitrov, who was officially appointed by the Bulgarian Football Federation (BFU) in September 2025 to replace Ilian Iliev. Dimitrov previously played in Indonesia with Persipura Jayapura in the period of 2003-2005. "They are trying to start a new era. I think they are a very good opponent," said Herdman.

According to Herdman, the FIFA Series brings a different atmosphere by bringing together teams from various confederations. He considers this situation important for both players and supporters. "This preparation is very interesting. The process is underway and now it's time to understand the challenges," he said.

FIFA designed the FIFA Series to provide countries from different confederations that rarely meet with an opportunity to play friendly matches outside of official tournaments, such as the World Cup. This event also serves as an initial test for Herdman in formulating strategies with the Garuda squad.

Read: FIFA Brings World Cup Trophy to Jakarta on Global 2026 Tour

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