Jay Idzes and Justin Hubner Talk About New Era of Indonesian National Team with John Herdman.
Source: Antara/Zaro Ezza Syachniar
The 0-1 defeat to Bulgaria in the FIFA Series 2026 final at the Main Stadium Gelora Bung Karno didn't entirely leave wounds for the Indonesian National Team. Behind that painful result, optimism emerged from Jay Idzes and Justin Hubner.
For Idzes, the moment of gathering back with the Garuda Squad meant far more than just the Match Result.
The Garuda captain was last with the national team five months ago in Saudi Arabia during the continuation of 2026 World Cup Qualification.
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"I think the most important thing is being able to gather back with the team. The last time we were together was in Saudi Arabia. Of course, we lost the dream of going to the 2026 World Cup," said Idzes in the mixed zone of the Main Stadium Gelora Bung Karno (SUGBK), Jakarta.
Idzes revealed the intensive communication that occurred between players during the competition break is strong proof that the dream isn't extinguished.
"In the last few months, I've talked a lot with teammates. They were all waiting to come back and gather again, play together, and play for everyone. Being able to come back here, wear this jersey again, I really missed it," he said.
In the first two matches under coach John Herdman's era, Indonesia recorded one win and one loss.
"We certainly can still improve many things because this is the first time together with the new coach. He has many new things he wants to implement and try, and I think we've done very well in many aspects," said the player with 15 caps.
He wasn't surprised by Herdman's energetic character on the sidelines—something he believes actually adds value to the team.
"Yes, he has great passion, definitely. I've played in Italy for three years, so I know coaches and people there are very passionate. So, yes, good to see. Nice to see it," said Idzes.
National Team Defender Justin Hubner." width="100%" />Source: Antara/Zaro Ezza Syachniar.
Echoing Idzes, Hubner views the future of the Indonesian national team with full confidence. The 22-year-old defender believes Herdman's presence brings a new, more progressive mindset.
"I think the coach now has a very different mindset. He really wants to push us to the next level," said Hubner.
This optimism isn't without reason. Hubner sees how the coaching staff works and builds a system to elevate the team's performance to a higher level.
"I think we can achieve great things with this staff because they are doing a very good job," he said.
Although having to acknowledge Bulgaria's superiority, Hubner remains proud of the team's performance, which he assessed as dominant in ball possession.
"Of course we lost, but I think we showed very good play today. We performed very well when controlling the ball. Unfortunately, they got a penalty and scored, but I think we can be proud of this team," he concluded.
