Jakarta-The Indonesian national team managed to ensure their move to the third round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers after beating the Philippines 2-0 at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (SUGBK), Jakarta on Tuesday, June 11. This victory also brought Indonesia directly to the 2027 Asian Cup as runners-up in Group F.
Under coach Shin Tae Yong, Indonesia fielded seven aboard players, including left-back Calvin Verdok who made an impressive appearance in his debut for the Garuda team. Since the beginning of the match, the Indonesian national team played hard and created several dangerous opportunities. However, a new first goal was created in the 31st minute through Thom Haye's long-range kick from outside the penalty box.
"A beautiful corner and wearing the goal-seeded technique," said Imran Nahumarury, a former Indonesian national team midfielder, commenting on Indonesia's first goal.
The Philippines, which is also reinforced by naturalized players playing in Europe, showed a disciplined game so that the first half ended with a score of 1-0. "Both teams played quite patiently. The experience of players speaking here is because many Filipino players are naturalized and playing in Europe," said Yeyen Tumena, a former national team stoper who is now active in the field of PSSI coaching.
The slippery condition of the field due to heavy rain before the match made it difficult for the players to control the ball. "This also makes it a bit difficult for the players to control the ball," said Yeyen.
The second goal for Indonesia was scored by captain Rizky Ridho in the 56th minute through a header that took advantage of Nathan Tjoe A On's free kick. This goal ensured Indonesia's victory over the Philippines and brought them forward to the next round in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
In the 84th minute, there was an incident when the Filipino striker, Ugelvik, was lying on the ground because he collided with the Indonesian goalkeeper, Ernando Ari. Ugelvik was forced to leave the field and was rescued by ambulance to the hospital due to an injury to his head.
Yeyen Tumena also highlighted Indonesia's game which looked better and controlled the match compared to last Thursday's match against Iraq. "This seems to be the quality of the team faced differently. This time it seems to be playing better because it also depends on the opponent they face," said Yeyen.
For the third round later, Yeyen called it a real test for the Garuda team. "The opponent faced in the third round is clearly different from the Philippines or Vietnam. The opponent will be the elite Asian team. It seems that Shin Tae Yong has to work hard to formulate his strategy," added Yeyen.
With this result, the Indonesian national team not only advanced to the third round of the World Cup qualifiers, but also ensured a ticket to the 2027 Asian Cup. This achievement was a brilliant achievement for Shin Tae Yong's squad and gave new hope for Indonesian football.
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