Representatives from Three Continents to Test Garuda Squad's Mettle; Erick Thohir: A Moment to Build a New National Team Era
PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir has given an optimistic reception to the launch of the FIFA Series 2026 schedule, which places Jakarta as the host city on 27 and 30 March 2026. The event, to be held at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (SUGBK), is considered an ideal stage for testing the new-look Indonesian national team under the guidance of newly appointed coach John Herdman.
The tournament presents cross-continental challenges. In addition to the Garuda Squad, three nations from different confederations will take part: Bulgaria (UEFA), Solomon Islands (OFC), and St Kitts and Nevis (CONCACAF).
According to Erick, the presence of teams with differing footballing cultures represents a golden opportunity for Indonesia. “This event is not only a valuable trial for new coach John Herdman, but also an opportunity for national team players to test their abilities against different playing styles from different confederations,” Erick said in Jakarta on Monday (23/2/2026).
He considers the FIFA Series to be a fitting moment as the national team will immediately face two contrasting styles of play in quick succession. This is important for measuring the players’ tactical adaptability and competitive mentality.
Indonesia’s opening match on Friday, 27 March 2026, will serve as an initial test. The Garuda Squad is scheduled to face St Kitts and Nevis at 20:00 WIB. Erick highlighted the characteristics of their opponents, whom he described as adopting a British football style with strength in rapid counter-attacks.
“In the first match, Indonesia will face St Kitts and Nevis (CONCACAF), a former British colony. Their playing style largely adopts the British football style and also relies on counter-attacks,” Erick said.
This tactical test will be Herdman’s first homework assignment in devising a strategy to contain the speed and effectiveness of their opponents.
Should they clear the initial hurdle, the next challenge awaits from the winner of the Bulgaria versus Solomon Islands fixture. Both teams offer different flavours. Solomon Islands are known for technically skilled players with strong futsal and street football influences, whilst Bulgaria represents the pragmatic Eastern European character — disciplined in defence and dangerous through moments of individual brilliance.
Erick hopes the FIFA Series 2026 will become an important foundation for a new era of the Indonesian national team. With the combination of a new coach and tests from three continents, he wants the event to serve as a catalyst for the Garuda’s resurgence on the international stage.
“I hope that the national team under the new coach can use this event to rebuild the team’s strength,” he said.
FIFA Series 2026 Schedule in Indonesia:
Friday, 27 March 2026 Indonesia vs St Kitts and Nevis (20:00 WIB) Bulgaria vs Solomon Islands (15:30 WIB)
Monday, 30 March 2026 Third-place play-off (15:30 WIB) Final (20:00 WIB)