Indonesia's national team under new coach John Herdman prepares to face Saint Kitts and Nevis in the FIFA Series 2026 opener at Stadion Utama Gelora Bung Karno in Jakarta on March 27, 2026. Herdman promises fresh energy after intensive training, despite dropping defender Dean James from the squad. Manager Sumardji denies rumors of calling up Tim Geypens.
Indonesia's national team is scheduled to host Saint Kitts and Nevis on Friday, March 27, 2026, at Stadion Utama Gelora Bung Karno in Jakarta, as the first match of FIFA Series 2026. This marks the official debut of coach John Herdman with the Garuda squad after his appointment by PSSI earlier this year. Herdman emphasized intensive preparations over four days with high tempo and collective pressing. Striker Ole Romeny stated, “The training is very good. The tempo is high, the intensity is also high. We are pressing with great energy.” Romeny also highlighted the team's family-like chemistry. Persija Jakarta coach Mauricio Souza expressed pride over four of his players being called up: Rizky Ridho Ramadhany, Jordi Amat, Dony Tri Pamungkas, and Mauro Zijlstra. “In my opinion, it's a big reward for a soccer player,” Souza said. Herdman praised Dony Tri's potential, saying, “If you're good enough, you're old enough.” Defender Dean James was dropped from the final squad, sparking rumors of a replacement like Tim Geypens. However, manager Sumardji clarified, “No one else is being called up. We have the full 23 players.” Herdman added, “Dean James has made his own statement... He is a big part of our family.” Sumardji denied any passport issues. Defender Elkan Baggott welcomed the new energy from Herdman, “Coach John brings new energy and new spirit to us.” Herdman is optimistic about facing an opponent from a different confederation as a good test for the team.
