Indonesia Better at FIFA Series 2026, Herdman Admits Very Painful Result

Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium witnessed irony for Indonesian National Team in the FIFA Series 2026 final. Despite controlling the game for nearly the entire match, Garuda Squad suffered a 0-1 defeat to Bulgaria. 

Indonesia's dominance was evident with 71 percent ball possession, far surpassing Bulgaria's 29 percent. 

However, Football isn't just about controlling play. The sole goal by Bulgarian midfielder Marin Petkov from the penalty spot in the 38th minute proved decisive. 

"Tonight should have been Indonesia's victory. Bulgaria is the world's 80th-ranked team, but in my opinion, Indonesia played better tonight," Coach John Herdman stated in the post-match press conference.

Indonesia dictated play but lacked sharpness in the final third. Only one of their six shots was on target. 

Conversely, Bulgaria displayed clinical efficiency. Four of their nine attempts found the mark, including Petkov's match-winning penalty.

Herdman acknowledged this efficiency as the key difference.

"Congratulations to Bulgaria. They won the match and managed it well, slowing the tempo, controlling the rhythm. That's good for them, because that's how you win matches," said Herdman.

Indonesia's closest chance came in the second half when Ole Romeny's 70th-minute strike nearly changed the game but rattled the crossbar.

"If asked why we didn't score, perhaps you should ask the crossbar. That was nearly a world-class goal from Ole," Herdman remarked.

This loss leaves Herdman's first two games with Indonesia at one win and one defeat. 

Across both matches, Garuda scored four goals while conceding only once. For Herdman, becoming FIFA Series Runner-up still stings.

"I believe the players will learn from this, they'll grow. But we're disappointed. It feels painful. Very painful," he concluded.