John Herdman Calls on the Indonesian National Team to Rise Up, Focus on Securing Three Points Against Singapore

The Indonesia National Team suffered their first defeat in Group A of the 2026 AFF Cup, falling 0-3 to Vietnam at Pakansari Stadium, Bogor, West Java. Head coach John Herdman immediately shifted his focus to the upcoming fixture against Singapore, which will act as the decider for Garuda's progress in the tournament.

Herdman acknowledged Vietnam put on a superior performance, most notably in their tactical setup, and were fully deserving of the three points.

"I think we have to admit our performance was not good enough. Tactically, they [the Vietnam national team] were better," stated John Herdman during the post-match press conference.

This defeat brings an end to Indonesia's positive start to the tournament, following opening victories: a 5-1 win over Cambodia and a subsequent 3-0 triumph against Timor Leste.

Throughout the full 90 minutes, Vietnam played with discipline and clinical efficiency, while successfully exploiting weaknesses in Indonesia's game system.

The 51-year-old coach confirmed this poor result will be used for full team evaluation. With only a short recovery window available, his coaching staff must act quickly to deliver a positive outcome in Indonesia's next match.

"As a coach you have to learn fast in this job, very fast. That match against Singapore is coming at us very quickly," he added.

The fixture against Singapore on 7 August is now the sole focus for the Garuda squad. Herdman stressed that the team cannot dwell on this disappointment, as qualification to the next round still remains an open possibility.

He confirmed the dressing room was filled with frustration following the heavy home defeat, but stated this emotion must be quickly channelled into motivation to rebound.

According to Herdman, every player understands the high stakes of the upcoming match. For this reason, full physical and mental recovery will be made the absolute priority before the squad travels to face Singapore.

The coach, who previously achieved historic success by qualifying Canada for the World Cup, also reminded that Indonesia's 2026 AFF Cup campaign is not yet finished.

He confirmed the Garuda squad can still improve their position in the group standings if they secure victory in their final group match.

Herdman has called on all players to recapture the fighting character and competitive mentality that delivered the team's two opening group stage wins.

He stated the squad must travel to Singapore with full determination to take all three points, and keep their progression hopes alive.

Herdman also highlighted that support from Indonesian fans remains the team's greatest strength. Even as they watched their side suffer a home defeat, supporters continued to back the team loudly right until the final whistle.

He offered both his sincere gratitude and an apology to every fan who filled Pakansari Stadium for the match.

"They stayed with us right until the end. We will come back, we have to come back. There is still one more match left for us to fight for," he concluded.