JAKARTA - The Indonesian national team arrived in Jakarta on Wednesday, November 22, 2023, after undergoing two World Cup Qualification matches for the 2026 Asian Zone.

The Garuda squad came home with bad results. Shin Tae-yong's team lost to Iraq 1-5 on November 16, 2023 when they visited the Basra International Stadium.

Furthermore, visits to the Philippines only resulted in one point with a score of 1-1 at the Rizal Memorial Stadium on November 21, 2023.

The two results made Indonesia the lowest in the Group F standings for the 2026 World Cup Qualification in the Asian Zone.

Although not yet optimal, Garuda's players were not discouraged. They admitted that there were still many shortcomings that needed to be improved.

"So, I am grateful because this is all about the team, not about individuals. I am grateful for being able to fight at this point despite many obstacles. Once again everyone is grateful for the results we got," said Saddil Ramdani, an Indonesian national team striker.

Indonesia's chances are certainly still open to continuing its journey to the third round of qualifying. There are still four more matches that will be played, three of which will be held at home.

Therefore, Saddil further asked for full support from supporters when playing at home. Only support from supporters can motivate players to make better results.

"We really respect (supporting supporters) because we have encouraged us to play in the Philippines. I hope they still love the Indonesian national team, still support it. Even though it's good and bad, it's always supported," said Saddil.

"Get rid of the criticisms that make this team a bad atmosphere. Hopefully the message from the supporters can build players to be better."

"I hope the team will be more enthusiastic because they play at home. We hope to get better points than away. We can be eager to play at home because we have extraordinary supporters in building our spirits, motivating us," said the Sabah FC player.

Nearby, the Indonesian national team will host Vietnam on March 21, 2024. Five days later, they had to travel to The Golden Star headquarters, Vietnam's nickname.


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