Australian Goalkeeper Mathew Ryan Wants His Team To Rise From Defeat In The First Match Of The 2026 World Cup Qualifiers

JAKARTA Australian national team goalkeeper Mathew Ryan is determined to motivate his team to rise after the defeat in the opening match of the third round of the 2026 World Cup Qualification zone Asia Group C. Australia will face Indonesia at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, Jakarta, on Tuesday, September 10, 2024.

Australia began the third round of qualifiers with a 0-1 defeat to Bahrain at home, Robina Stadium, on Thursday, September 5, 2024. The single goal in the match was created by their defender Harry Souttar's own goal, in the 89th minute, when Australia played with 10 players after Kunini Yengi got a red card in the 77th minute.

"I want our team to learn from last night's experience and use it to move forward, to be better and stronger," said Ryan, who now plays for AS Roma, via the official Australian national team website.

Ryan emphasized the importance of not underestimating opponents, including Indonesia, even though Indonesia's FIFA ranking is far below Australia (Australia ranked 24th in the world and Indonesia ranked 133rd in the world). Ryan added that his team will focus on making game plans to achieve positive results.

"The mentality we always try and get close to every game is respecting every opponent we face, and that's what they deserve," Ryan continued. "For matches against Indonesia, there will be no difference. There will be large audiences, and they show their quality, not only against Saudi Arabia recently, but also in the past."

Midfielder Jackson Irvine also emphasized the importance of the match against Indonesia. "We have to learn quickly, move on immediately, and focus on Tuesday night's match. The players in the dressing room are now aware of the meaning of the match," said Irvine.

With a strong determination, the Australian national team hopes to win an important victory in the match against Indonesia to improve their position in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.