The Indonesian National Team Does Not Shrink Nyali Even Though Australia's FIFA Ranking Is Much Higher

Shin Tae-yong emphasized that the Indonesian national team was not afraid to face Australia (doc. AFC).

JAKARTA - The coach of the Indonesian national team, Shin Tae-yong, emphasized that his team did not lose any courage when meeting Australia in the Third Round of the 2026 World Cup Qualification. This was revealed by the coach considering that both teams had FIFA rankings quite far apart.

The Indonesian national team will meet Australia in the second match of the 2026 World Cup Qualification Third Round. With the status as the host, the Garuda Squad will host The Socceroos at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (SUGBK), Jakarta, on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, evening WIB.

Dealing with Australia is not an easy agenda for the Indonesian national team. You see, The Socceroos is a fairly superior team.

Not only that, Graham Arnold's team also ranked FIFA higher.

Australia currently ranks 24th in the FIFA rankings, while the Indonesian national team currently ranks 131th. With a distance of more than 100 positions, Shin Tae-yong is aware that the match will be full of challenges.

"Tomorrow's game is not easy for us because Australia is currently in the 20s FIFA rankings."

"Meanwhile, Indonesia is in the 130st rank. This will definitely be a very difficult match for us," said Shin Tae-yong during a press conference at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, Jakarta, Monday, September 9, 2024, afternoon WIB.

However, the South Korean coach did not want to give up on the situation. Shin Tae-yong even stated that this situation did not at all make his team discouraged, let alone give up easily.

"However, the players will never give up. However, they will make this home game a good match against Australia tomorrow," he said.

Justin Hubner also made a optimistic statement. Present to accompany Shin Tae-yong at a press conference, Hubner stated that Australia is a strong country.

However, with thorough preparation, he is optimistic that the Indonesian national team will not need to be afraid of whoever the opponent is.

"I think Australia is a very strong country, so are we. We are not afraid of anyone. We will fight tomorrow, our preparation is good for tomorrow's game," said Justin Hubner.

Facing Australia, the Indonesian national team also pocketed qualified capital. The Garuda squad can be more confident after holding Saudi Arabia to a 1-1 draw in the inaugural match on Friday, September 5, 2024.