John Herdman Compares Sananta's Role to Giroud After Goal Drought in FIFA Series Debut (Translated text: 140 characters)
Source: AntaraNews
Indonesian National Team Coach John Herdman defended Ramadhan Sananta's performance following the emphatic 4-0 win over the Saint Kitts and Nevis national Football team at Stadion Utama Gelora Bung Karno, Jakarta, on Friday, March 27, 2026.
Sananta faced scrutiny after the 23-year-old striker failed to score despite playing for 72 minutes. Criticism from the public, especially on social media, was unavoidable.
However, Herdman believes Sananta's contribution cannot be measured solely by goals. He instead appreciated the player's crucial role in the team's tactical scheme.
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"Some comments on social media are inappropriate. We must have better standards as a nation. His role is to create space, to be the first line in the pressing," said Herdman at Stadion Madya Gelora Bung Karno, Jakarta, on Sunday, March 29, 2026.
Herdman then compared Sananta's role to that of French National Team striker Olivier Giroud, who remained a vital part of the 2018 World Cup-winning squad despite not scoring.
"If you look at Olivier Giroud, he went without scoring at the World Cup (2018), but wasn't criticized because of his contribution to the team," he added.
According to Herdman, Sananta has an active playing style characterized by creating space and supporting his teammates in the forward line.
He also highlighted Sananta's off-the-ball movement, considered very helpful for other players like Beckham Putra and Ole Romeny in creating chances.
"Sananta is that kind of player. He plays for the team," said Herdman, emphasizing the importance of Sananta's role.
"His movement creates space for Ole Romeny, Ragnar, Beckham, and others. So I hope supporters can be calmer and appreciate his hard work. He is very proud to be Indonesian, and it's hard to see excessive criticism of a player like him. We must become better as a nation," he added.
Statistically, Sananta continues to show positive contributions. With DPMM FC in the Malaysia League this season, he has recorded four goals and two assists.
Meanwhile, at the senior Indonesian National Team level, the player born in Daik, North Sumatra, has collected 17 caps and scored six goals.
"We need Ramadhan Sananta," said Herdman.
