Bitter! Calvin Verdonk Still Haunted by Indonesian National Team's Failure to Qualify for 2026 World Cup
Source: via Antara/Rauf Adipati
Indonesian national team defender Calvin Verdonk admits he still harbors deep disappointment after the Garuda squad's failure to reach the 2026 World Cup. The big dream of playing in the world's biggest football event was dashed in the fourth round of Asian zone qualifying.
Verdonk was part of the team that fought until the final stage. However, Indonesia had to swallow defeats against Saudi Arabia and Iraq in the two decisive matches. According to him, those two matches were truly tough.
“We had to face two very difficult matches in Saudi Arabia. Those two defeats had a bad impact on us,” said Verdonk as reported by LOSC Lille's YouTube channel.
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The Scar Still Lingering in Verdonk's Heart
The player born in Dordrecht only played once, against Iraq. That defeat still lingers in his mind.
“When facing Iraq, I think we hadn't tried hard enough. So, there's disappointment,” said Verdonk.
For him, the loss wasn't just about the result, but about missing the chance to make history, to take Indonesia to the World Cup for the first time.
Focusing on Recovery and Returning to LOSC Lille
After a tough period with the national team, Verdonk is focusing on recovering and contributing again to his club, LOSC Lille. The injury that had been troubling him has now improved.
“I thought something felt different, but no, everything is fine. I feel good, and I'm in good condition.”
Verdonk is confirmed ready to play when Lille face OGC Nice on Friday, October 30, 2025, early morning WIB. Currently, Lille is in fifth place in the French League standings with five wins, two draws, and two losses.
The Unquenchable Garuda Spirit
Despite failing in World Cup qualifying, the spirit of the Garuda squad will not fade. For Verdonk and his teammates, this journey is an important lesson for looking ahead to the next tournament.
“It was a complicated international break for the national team,” he said. “But we've fought and will keep learning to be better.”
