Busy Schedule Awaits, John Herdman's First Test with Indonesian National Team
Source: Antara Photo/Dhemas Reviyanto
John Herdman has been officially appointed by PSSI as head coach of the Indonesian National Team and U-23 team. The English coach immediately faces a packed international schedule throughout 2026.
There's no extended transition period for the former Canadian National Team Coach. Herdman will immediately shift into competitive mode, preparing both Garuda (senior team) and Garuda Muda (U-23) for a series of tournaments and official matches.
Herdman's debut is scheduled for the Fifa Series at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, Jakarta, March 23-31, 2026. This event will be Herdman's first stage to showcase his tactical identity and playing philosophy.
This tournament isn't just a routine test. The points at stake will significantly impact Indonesia's position in the FIFA Ranking.
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The Red and White team desperately needs points after previously missing the FIFA match day in November 2025.
Following the FIFA Series, Herdman must manage the team's rhythm through additional FIFA Match Days in June, September, October, and November.
Amid this international schedule, one equally crucial regional event awaits: the 2026 AFF Cup starting July 25th.
Herdman's challenges extend beyond the senior team. As U-23 coach, he also shoulders responsibility for guiding Garuda Muda at the Aichi–Nagoya Asian Games in Japan, starting September 19th.
This packed schedule makes 2026 not merely a debut year for John Herdman in Indonesia, but a year of proof.
Within a short timeframe, he must establish a playing identity, improve the FIFA Ranking, compete regionally, and prepare for Youth Player Regeneration. All must happen simultaneously.
For Herdman, this calendar is an endurance test. For Indonesia, it's a pivotal moment: the chance to gauge how far this grand project can move from plans to tangible achievements.
Herdman's Schedule with Indonesian National Team and U-23 Team:
Indonesian National Team
FIFA match day: March 23-31, June, September, October, and November
AFF Cup 2026: starting July 25th
Indonesian U-23 Team
Nagoya Asian Games 2026: starting September 19th
