Absent From Defending The Indonesian National Team Vs Saudi Arabia, Kevin Diks Returns To Denmark

Kevin Diks was confirmed to be absent during the Indonesian national team against Saudi Arabia (VOI/Ferry Tri Adi Sasono).

JAKARTA - The Indonesian national team defender, Kevin Diks, has certainly returned to Denmark following his official absence from defending the Garuda vs Saudi Arabia squad on Tuesday, November 19, 2024.

This was confirmed by the Indonesian national team manager, Sumardji. Kevin Diks' absence in the match against Saudi Arabia was because this 27-year-old player suffered an injury to his knee against Japan on Friday, November 15, 2024.

He returned to his club in Denmark, FC Copenhagen, to undergo further treatment.

"Yes, he (Kevin Diks) left tonight (18 November 2024) to return to Denmark," Sumardji said in a statement received Monday, 18 November 2024.

Previously, Shin Tae-yong as the coach also had doubts about Kevin Diks to be able to continue defending the Indonesian national team against Saudi Arabia.

The coach admitted that he did not want to force Diks to play if his condition was not possible.

"For Kevin Diks, it seems difficult to play. So, what must be prioritized is the condition of the players, they must be guarded and not forced to play," said the coach during a press conference.

Although later the Indonesian national team will appear without Kevin Diks, Shin Tae-yong remains optimistic in chasing the first victory of the Indonesian national team in the Third Round of the 2026 World Cup Qualification.

"I believe in the players. Tomorrow depends on the struggle of the players against Saudi Arabia. I hope the players are excited for tomorrow's game," said the coach.