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Indonesia Faces Australia in Critical World Cup Qualifier Under New Coach Patrick Kluivert

Indonesia, just one point behind Australia in Group C, aims to secure a historic World Cup berth with a revamped squad and European-based talent.

Soccer Football - World Cup - AFC Qualifiers - Third Round - Group C - Australia v Indonesia - Allianz Stadium, Sydney, Australia - March 20, 2025 Australia's Jackson Irvine celebrates with teammates after scoring their third goal REUTERS/Hollie Adams
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Soccer Football - World Cup - AFC Qualifiers - Third Round - Group C - Australia v Indonesia - Allianz Stadium, Sydney, Australia - March 20, 2025 Australia's Jackson Irvine celebrates with Lewis Miller after scoring their third goal REUTERS/Hollie Adams
Soccer Football - World Cup - Asian Qualifiers - Third Round - Group C - Japan v Australia - Saitama Stadium 2002, Saitama, Japan - October 15, 2024 Australia coach Tony Popovic before the match REUTERS/Issei Kato/File Photo

Overview

  • Indonesia has transformed its national football team by recruiting European-based players of Indonesian heritage, primarily from the Netherlands.
  • Patrick Kluivert, appointed head coach in January 2025, will lead Indonesia for the first time in this pivotal match against Australia.
  • The team has achieved notable results, including a 0-0 draw with Australia and a 2-0 victory over Saudi Arabia in earlier qualifiers.
  • Concerns persist over the long-term impact of relying on naturalized players on local talent development and national identity.
  • Australian coach Tony Popovic has acknowledged Indonesia's improvement and emphasized the need for strategic preparation to maintain second place in Group C.