TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Indonesian National Team overcame China’s resistance with a 1–0 victory in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Asian qualifiers. The match, held at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (SUGBK) on Thursday, June 5, 2025, was decided by a single first-half goal from Ole Romeny.
Beyond securing a place in the fourth qualifying round, the match also served as a proving ground for players competing in Indonesia’s domestic Liga 1.
Head coach Patrick Kluivert fielded several local talents from the outset, including Rizky Ridho, Ricky Kambuaya, Yakub Sayuri, and Egy Maulana Vikri.
Kluivert explained that his lineup decisions were made purely based on merit and performance.
“For me, the most important thing is if people show their quality, then they deserve to play. Whether they are naturalized players or local players, for me there is no difference. We are one team. We know that we have to play two matches. So, in my opinion, the best team will play from the start,” said Kluivert during a post-match press conference, as quoted by Antara.
He added that confidence is key to building team strength, regardless of who starts.
“I'm not saying that the other players are worse or not good enough to play from the start, because they are actually good. But they need to feel confident. That's what makes our team stronger,” he said.
While acknowledging that Indonesia did not fully dominate possession, Kluivert remained focused on the outcome.
“I am very proud of my team, very proud of the performance we displayed. Even though we didn't completely dominate the match, the result is the most important thing. And if we can play with a perfect style of play, that is a bonus,” said the Dutch-born coach.
Indonesian National Team coach Patrick Kluivert (right), accompanied by assistant coach Denny Landzaat (second from the right), giving instructions to his players during the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers third round Group C match against the China National Team at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, Jakarta, June 5, 2025. Antara/Fauzan
Kluivert also said that he is satisfied with the strength of his squad at present. "I am happy with the team right now. I am happy with this squad. I am pleased to bring this team to matches against Bahrain and Japan. Because now we also have players who got a yellow card (Egy), so it's not too late to make rotations," he revealed.
Kluivert also expressed his admiration for Ricky Kambuaya following the team's 1–0 win over China. Kambuaya, who plays for Dewa United, started the match as a left winger and delivered a strong performance that impressed the coaching staff and fans alike.
This was Kambuaya's second consecutive appearance for the national team after featuring in the match against Vietnam in March. His start against China marked his return to the starting lineup for the first time since the game against the Philippines in November 2023.
"Ricky kambuaya, well, I don't have to say many things. For me, Ricky played a fantastic game today," Kluivert said in the post-match press conference at SUGBK.
"He showed a really big heart. He's a very shy player, but on the field, he's really a good player."
Editor's Choice: Kluivert Praises Ricky Kambuaya's "Fantastic Game" in Indonesia's Win Over China
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
Confident Jay Idzes Says Indonesia Remains Focused Ahead of Japan Clash
3 jam lalu
The team captain, Jay Idzes, stated that the Indonesian national team will remain focused when facing Japan, despite already securing a spot in the fourth round of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers.
Emil Audero's Stellar Debut Helps Indonesia Advance in World Cup Qualifiers
6 jam lalu
Goalkeeper Emil Audero made several vital saves to deny China's attacks, including a critical stop early in the second half.
Today's Top 3 News: Indonesia Secures 1-0 Victory Over China in World Cup Qualifiers
16 jam lalu
Here is the list of the top 3 news on Tempo English today.
Belarus Key to Indonesia's Food Security in Potash Fertilizer Deal
16 jam lalu
Indonesia has partnered with Belarus, one of the world's largest potash exporters, to strengthen national food security.
Indonesia Seeks Finland's Support to Join the OECD
18 jam lalu
Indonesia is collaborating with Finland to strengthen green energy investments and education, and seeking Finland's support to join the OECD.
Indonesian National Team Seen Carrying Rolex Watches After Lunch with Prabowo
20 jam lalu
The lunch invitation was held a day after the Indonesian national team defeated China 1-0, coinciding with Eid al-Adha 1446 Hijriah.
Prabowo Invites Indonesian National Team to Lunch at Kertanegara
21 jam lalu
The meeting between Prabowo and the officials and players of the Indonesian National Team took about 90 minutes.
Reasons Behind OECD's Downgrade of Indonesia's Economic Growth Projection
21 jam lalu
One of the reasons the OECD cited is the uncertainty of Indonesia's fiscal policy.
China Coach Praises Strength of Indonesian National Team
22 jam lalu
The Chinese national team coach revealed its assessment of the strength of the Indonesian national team in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Kluivert Praises Ricky Kambuaya's "Fantastic Game" in Indonesia's Win Over China
1 hari lalu
Ricky Kambuaya impressed in 83 minutes, winning a penalty and consistently troubling China's defense with his skillful ball control.
