Indonesian National Team Ready to Play Against Japan

Jakarta, Beritasatu.com – Indonesian National Team (Timnas) coach Shin Tae-yong continues to finalize his students’ preparations ahead of facing Japan in the 2026 World Cup Qualification match at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (SUGBK) Senayan Jakarta, Friday (15/11/2024).

Even though the team’s preparations went smoothly, Shin Tae-yong admitted that there were a few obstacles and challenges that had to be faced. One of them is the delay of several players who have just finished their club competitions.

“So even though we are experiencing a little problem regarding preparation time because some of the players have just finished their club competitions, I am confident squad Garuda will be ready. “We called up 27 to 28 players for this match,” said Shin Tae-yong, quoted by Beritasatu.com, Saturday (9/11/2024).

One of the players who is certain not to participate is Asnawi Mangkualam. Even though it was previously stated that his condition was fine. However, Shin Tae-yong explained that Asnawi had a hamstring injury which was at risk of worsening if he was forced to play in a crucial match later.

“We have to avoid the risk of more serious injuries. “That’s why Asnawi was not included in the list of players,” said the coach from South Korea (South Korea).

Apart from that, Shin Tae-yong also expressed his appreciation for two young players, Rizki Ridho and Jay Idzes, who stood out at club level. Both were recorded as providing assists in their most recent match.

Shin Tae-yong emphasized the importance of the players’ consistent performance when playing with the club because it will influence the choice of the national team.

“As a coach, I certainly really appreciate it if players perform well at the club. “However, if they don’t show a good performance, it will be a challenge for me and the team,” stressed Shin Tae-yong.

Even though Indonesia will face Japan, the team which is currently at the top of Asia according to the FIFA rankings, Shin Tae-yong is optimistic that his team will be able to provide fierce resistance.

Japan is known for its depth squad extraordinary and very high quality of individuals, many of whom compete at the highest level such as the European Champions League.

“Against Japan will definitely be very difficult. They are a very strong team, both in terms of individual quality and team organization. “We have to prepare ourselves very well,” explained Shin Tae-yong.

However, even though Japan will appear without their main striker who is injured, Shin Tae-yong emphasized that this is not a reason to underestimate the strength of the Samurai Blue team. Japan has squad which is very organized with quality players who remain dangerous on every line.