Herdman: The match against Cambodia is the starting point for building the national football team's identity.

Indonesia national team head coach John Herdman has confirmed that the opening Group A match of the 2026 ASEAN Hyundai Cup against Cambodia is not just about chasing three points.

For Herdman, this fixture scheduled at Pakansari Stadium, Bogor Regency on Monday, 27 July 2026 at 20.30 WIB marks the first step to build the squad's playing identity, strengthen on-pitch chemistry, and instil a new competitive character for the Garuda team.

"At this stage, the most critical thing is that we focus on ourselves first. We have to trust every step we have prepared so far," stated Herdman during the pre-match press conference at Pakansari Stadium on Sunday, 26 July 2026.

The Canadian head coach noted that the national team rebuilding process is still at its very early phase.

This match against Cambodia will be Indonesia's first official game in the 2026 ASEAN Hyundai Cup, as well as only the second fixture Herdman has overseen since his appointment as head coach.

For this reason, his main priority is not only to secure victory, but also to ensure the squad shows consistent improvement match after match.

"We want to grow into a stronger team. This is just the first step on this journey we are building together, and I hope there will be many more steps ahead," added Herdman.

Alongside developing the team's playing style, Herdman also expressed hope that full supporter attendance at Pakansari Stadium will provide an extra morale boost for the players.

He explained that the atmosphere created by home fans will help build squad confidence while accelerating the process of solidifying the team's playing identity.

Even with home advantage, Herdman has warned his players not to underestimate Cambodia. He confirmed he has analysed Cambodia's previous match against Singapore, assessing that the side is well-organised and highly disciplined.

"Cambodia are a structured, very disciplined team. They will be a tough opponent. Regardless, our focus stays on the Indonesia national team: our playing identity, on-pitch connections, chemistry, and team spirit," he stated.

This warning was not unfounded. In their own Group A opening match, Cambodia put up a fierce resistance before suffering a narrow 1-2 defeat against Singapore.

Playing at Morodok Techo Stadium, Phnom Penh, Cambodia levelled the score through Ouk Sovann in the 55th minute, before Ilhan Fandi scored Singapore's winning goal deep into stoppage time.

Herdman also confirmed team development will proceed gradually. While targeting wins, he will not overwork the players physically, as this tournament takes place during the pre-season period for most of the squad with their respective club sides.

"This is a gradual, step-by-step process. We want to win, but never at the cost of player safety and wellbeing. We also have to respect the clubs that have released these players for international duty," he stated, as quoted by Antara News Agency.

Meanwhile, Indonesia national team goalkeeper Nadeo Argawinata confirmed all players have completed full preparation during their training camp in Bali, stating the Garuda squad is ready for this opening match challenge.

"We have gone through every preparation together with Coach John. First matches are never easy, but we are locked in on our own playing identity, and we are 100% ready to face Cambodia," said Nadeo.

This fixture against Cambodia will be Indonesia's first real test at the 2026 ASEAN Hyundai Cup, as well as the first benchmark for John Herdman's long-term project with the national squad.

The 50-year-old coach hopes his side will not only secure a positive result, but also begin to demonstrate the playing identity that will become the foundation of Indonesia's national team for all future Southeast Asian competitions.