Indonesia National Team Heading to the 2027 Asian Cup: John Herdman's Big Homework

ITSMe – Indonesia National Football Team still has unfinished homework ahead of 2027 AFC Asian Cup. Under John Herdman's guidance, the Garuda Squad has shown progress, but their performance remains inconsistent. Match consistency, transition play, and squad composition will be critical factors before competing against the standards of Asian Football.

Indonesia is drawn into Group F alongside Japan, Qatar and Thailand. Garuda will open their campaign against Japan on 11 January 2027. This tournament hosted in Saudi Arabia will run from 7 January to 5 February 2027.

On the ITSMe Podcast featuring Football Analyst Sapto Haryo Rajasa and Yusuf Kurniawan (known as Bung Yuke), the national team's readiness became the main discussion topic. This episode, recorded in Sentul, Bogor, was hosted by Raisha and Gilang Respati.

Improved Mentality, Transition Play Requires Fixing

Indonesia's recent run has shown two sides of the squad. Garuda secured a dominant 9-2 win over Bangladesh, but matches against Thailand exposed that the team still struggles to handle high pressure and adverse match situations.

During the 2026 FIFA ASEAN CUP Final, Indonesia fell behind 1-2 in extra time. A goal from Elkan Baggott in the 116th minute levelled the score at 2-2, before Indonesia eventually won 4-2 on penalties.

Sapto Haryo Rajasa assessed that the national team has started demonstrating team unity and fighting mentality to come back from losing positions. Solid support from fans also acts as a major asset for the squad.

However, Sapto pointed out that Indonesia must clean up their transition play, particularly when losing possession after attacking phases. Against Japan, even minor errors in positioning and closing down space will have fatal consequences.

For this reason, Herdman must ensure his players are able to drop back into defensive positions quickly, maintain proper line spacing, and shut down opposition attacks. Upon winning back the ball, Indonesia also needs to execute fast, effective build-up play.

Herdman Still Requires Additional Squad Options

Bung Yuke observed that Herdman's ongoing player rotations indicate the head coach is still searching for the ideal starting lineup that fits his tactical requirements.

Vacancies for the wide forward number 7 and centre forward number 9 roles are among the main priorities. Indonesia needs a winger capable of creating chances, as well as a clinical central striker to finish attacking moves.

It is hoped that before the Asian Cup kicks off, Herdman will have secured all required personnel and finalised the team's core structure. This will allow tactical coordination and understanding within the squad to fully mature.

Friendly Matches Are Key Preparation For Japan Test

Yusuf Kurniawan also recommended that Indonesia schedule away friendly matches against teams with playing styles similar to Japan. South Korea, North Korea, China or Uzbekistan are suitable options to test Garuda's defensive discipline, match intensity and transition capabilities.

These friendly fixtures are not primarily for chasing wins, but to measure Indonesia's ability to cope with pressure and opponents with well-organised systems of play.

In Group F, Japan will present a severe challenge right from the opening match. Realistically, Yuke stated Indonesia should target to pick up points against Qatar and Thailand, though this will ultimately depend on the squad's final preparation and Match Results of other fixtures.

The 2027 AFC Asian Cup will be a major milestone test for John Herdman. While the squad's fighting comeback mentality is already evident, consistency, transition play and squad composition still require further refinement. With proper, on-target preparation, Garuda has a genuine chance to perform competitively and fight for the best possible results in Group F.