Rivaldo Pakpahan's Consistent Performance at Borneo FC Deemed Worthy of Indonesian National Team

The stable performance of Rivaldo Pakpahan with Borneo FC in the Super League Indonesia 2025/26 season has garnered praise. Borneo FC coach Fabio Lefundes considers Rivaldo worthy of occupying the Indonesian National Team's midfield and earning opportunities at the international level.

According to Lefundes, Rivaldo possesses the qualities of a modern defensive midfielder, capable of maintaining the team's gameplay balance. He didn't hesitate to call the 23-year-old player one of the best local players in his position currently.

When asked about the possibility of Rivaldo being called up to coach John Herdman's national team for the FIFA Series 2026 agenda, Lefundes gave a firm response.

“Regarding the national team, the call-up is the national coach's decision. But if I were the coach, he would definitely play in my team. I ask you back: name me one local defensive midfielder better than him,” stated Lefundes after the 24th week Super League match at Jakarta International Stadium on Tuesday.

Borneo FC's Midfield Mainstay

Throughout this season, Rivaldo has been a crucial part of Borneo FC's gameplay scheme. Of the team's total 23 matches played, he appeared in 16 games, all as a starter.

For Lefundes, Rivaldo's contribution extends beyond statistics, highlighting his ability to maintain the team's midfield balance.

“I have an excellent player here (pointing to Rivaldo) who balances the defensive system optimally. He enables players like (Mohammad) Anez, (Juan) Villa, and Kei (Hirose) to perform at their best. He's the equilibrium,” praised the Brazilian coach of Rivaldo, who has only earned one senior national team cap so far.

Lefundes emphasized Rivaldo's presence isn't merely due to the league's youth-age regulations.

“I'm not saying this because he's here; I tell him this daily. There's now a U-23 rule, but Rivaldo plays because he deserves it, not just due to age. I consider him one of the best local players in the league this season. I hope he maintains this form so we can gain more points,” he explained.

One Crucial Point for Title Pursuit

Meanwhile, Rivaldo Pakpahan preferred to focus on the Match Result against Persija and the team's targets. He expressed gratitude that Borneo FC secured one point from Persija's home ground.

“First, I thank God. Though we didn't get three points at Persija's home, we brought one point back to Samarinda. This point is vital to keep our aspiration alive—to win this league title this season,” said Rivaldo.

He also considered the 2-2 draw in Jakarta provided valuable experience, particularly in handling the intense stadium atmosphere.

“The match was truly beneficial for me—great atmosphere for my future development. I also thank Persija supporters. There might have been some harsh words from me earlier, but that was just the heat of the moment. Beyond those 90 minutes, football unites us as brothers,” he concluded.

With his consistent midfield performances at Borneo FC, Rivaldo Pakpahan's chances of an Indonesian national team recall are increasingly open, especially approaching the international FIFA Series 2026 agenda.