Feel The First SUGBK Atmosphere For Maarten Paes

Maarten Paes can't wait to feel the atmosphere of SUGBK (doc. PSSI).

JAKARTA - Maarten Paes was finally able to feel the atmosphere of the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium when defending the Indonesian national team.

The moment most likely occurred when the Indonesian national team hosted Australia in the second match of the 2026 World Cup Qualification Third Round on Tuesday, September 10, 2024, at 19.00 WIB.

Paes has also made his debut with the Garuda Squad in the inaugural qualifying match against Saudi Arabia on September 5, 2024.

Now, he can't wait to make his debut at the home of the famous Indonesian national team because he is fully supported by militant supporters.

"I have a lot of hopes for fans. Honestly, from some of the video clips I have seen, fans are extraordinary. After playing, there is the song Tanah Airku. SUGBK is extraordinary," said Maarten Paes.

The support of militant supporters who became a new experience for Paes actually gave him more encouragement.

Moreover, Maarten Paes is currently in a slick mentality after becoming a hero in the match against Saudi Arabia. He saved The Green Falcon's penalty and a golden opportunity in the final minute.

No wonder, this situation made Maarten Paes sure that the Indonesian national team had a great chance of getting three points against Australia. Moreover, preparations have been carried out carefully.

"Australia is a strong country. We fought them during the 2023 Asian Cup in January 2024. We know in the match later, Australia will rely on physical play."

"We have to be vigilant because of course they are hungry for victory. We have to be good physically too," said Maarten Paes.

"There were some good players in Australia, their attackers were punished, but there was Martin Boyle, a good winger with a good cross. So we will prepare ourselves to anticipate that," said the 26-year-old goalkeeper.

Maarten Paes has the opportunity to start again like against Australia.

Meanwhile, the Indonesian national team is currently in fourth position in Group C standings with one point from one match. Japan (3 points), Bahrain (3 points), and Saudi Arabia (1 point) are above the Garuda Squad. Then, Australia and China occupy the fifth and sixth steps.