Indonesia Held Malaysia to a Draw, Herdman Names Thom Haye's Red Card as a Key Moment

Thom Haye's red card forced Indonesia National Team to play the majority of their FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 Group A match against Malaysia with only 10 players. For John Herdman however, this difficult situation also delivered a valuable lesson on unity and fighting spirit within the Garuda Squad.

Indonesia held Malaysia to a 0-0 draw at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (SUGBK), Jakarta on Monday. This result was secured after Haye was sent off in the 37th minute, following a red card issued by referee Ko Hyung-jin from South Korea.

Playing down a man, Indonesia came under sustained pressure from Malaysia throughout the entire second half. Nevertheless, Garuda's defensive line held firm until the final whistle, keeping their goal clean.

For Herdman, this experience marked an important milestone in his team's development journey.

"That red card actually gave our players an opportunity to build brotherhood, to learn how to fight side by side for their country in this critical moment," stated John Herdman during the post-match press conference at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (SUGBK), Jakarta on Monday.

Herdman reflected on his 25-year career in professional football. The English head coach has previously led teams at major international tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup and the Olympic Games.

Over this long career, Herdman noted that he has experienced refereeing decisions from both sides: he has received calls that benefited his squad, as well as calls that worked against them.

"One thing I've learned is that everything balances itself out over time," he remarked.

For this reason, Herdman refused to let Haye's red card become an excuse for the team to dwell on disappointment. Instead, he framed the incident as a valuable learning experience to build the team's character.

Being reduced to 10 men forced Indonesia's players to work harder, maintain their tactical structure, and support one another to withstand Malaysia's pressure. They ultimately succeeded in holding on to the 0-0 scoreline until full time.

Herdman acknowledged that moments like this are never easy, but they are a necessary part of building a strong team.

"We need moments like this. We need to see that these players will show up and fight for this country," he said.

Herdman even framed the red card as a natural part of a team's journey. While it was a clear disadvantage during this match, it can also serve as an experience that strengthens the bonds between players.

"That red card actually gave our players an opportunity to build brotherhood, to learn how to fight side by side for their country in this critical moment," Herdman repeated.

With this draw, Indonesia currently sits in second place in the provisional Group A standings of the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026. Malaysia remains top of the group with 3 points, holding a one-goal difference advantage over Indonesia.

The group stage will now proceed to the final decisive matchday. Indonesia will face Bangladesh on Thursday 1 October, while Malaysia will meet Singapore.

These two fixtures will decide the final Group A rankings. For Indonesia, the experience of holding out against Malaysia with 10 men will be an important asset as Herdman prepares the squad for their next match, with the target of progressing further in the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026.