These experiences, both individually and collectively, will continue to develop as we spend more time together in high-pressure situations, preparing for the big moments in World Cup qualification,Jakarta (ANTARA) -
Herdman made the remarks after the draw held by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) in At-Turaif District, Diriyah, Saudi Arabia, which confirmed Indonesia’s placement in Group F of the 2027 Asian Cup alongside Japan, Qatar, and Thailand.
“At the same time, we also need to get used to facing stronger opponents and closing the gap that currently exists between Indonesia and teams like Japan or Qatar. If we want to qualify for the 2030 World Cup, that gap must be reduced,” Herdman said, as quoted by the official Kita Garuda website on Sunday.
According to him, Indonesia’s experience facing strong teams in the 2027 Asian Cup will be highly valuable in realizing the dream of playing in the 2030 World Cup, where the team must first overcome other Asian countries in the qualification rounds.
Japan, for instance, is the most successful team in Asian Cup history, having won the tournament four times. Qatar has claimed the title twice, winning the last two editions—first in the United Arab Emirates in 2019 and then at home in 2023.
“These experiences, both individually and collectively, will continue to develop as we spend more time together in high-pressure situations, preparing for the big moments in World Cup qualification,” Herdman said.
Indonesia’s participation continues the trend of the Red and White team at the Asian level. In the 2023 Asian Cup, Indonesia made history by reaching the Round of 16 for the first time under coach Shin Tae-yong.
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Translator: Zaro, Kenzu
Editor: M Razi Rahman
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