SEAToday.com, Jakarta - The Indonesia National Team held their first training session ahead of their match against Australia at Netstrata Jubilee Stadium on Tuesday night, Sydney time.

Indonesia National Team head coach Patrick Kluivert remains optimistic after leading the first training session. He was impressed with the players' quality and is confident that his team can secure points against Australia in the third round of the 2026 World Cup Asian Qualifiers on Thursday, March 20.

"My first impression was very good. We did a series of passing drills and possession-based exercises. I saw quality in their play. I am very happy with this first training session," said Kluivert as quoted on the PSSI Official Website.

Regarding the players’ condition after their long journey to Australia, Kluivert confirmed that they were in good shape for training. 

"Yes, they had a long flight, but they remained fit and looked like they were enjoying the session. The way they moved the ball showed good signs and great speed. I am very happy with this first training," he added as quoted on the PSSI Official Website.

Furthermore, the Dutch coach emphasized that Indonesia's main target against Australia is to secure the best possible result because the Garuda squad did not come to just defend.

"We came here to get a good result, and a good result means a victory. Of course, it will be a very tough match, but I believe we can achieve a positive outcome," said Kluivert, as quoted on the PSSI Official Website, with high confidence.

Indonesia has brought a 29-man squad to face Australia, combining players from Liga 1 and those playing in Europe and Southeast Asia. Three new players—Joey Pelupessy, Emil Audero, and Dean James—joined the team on Tuesday morning, March 18, 2025.

The Garuda squad has one final training session tomorrow to ensure they are in top condition ahead of the crucial match against Australia.

Currently, the Indonesia National Team sits in third place in Group C of the third round of the 2026 World Cup Asian Qualifiers, with six points from six matches. Indonesia's points come from one win, three draws, and one loss. 

In the standings, Indonesia is just one point behind Australia, who hold second place, and 10 points behind Japan, who lead the group.

In this round, the top two teams in each group will secure direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup. Meanwhile, the third and fourth-placed teams will have another chance to fight for a World Cup spot in the fourth qualifying round, while the bottom two teams will be eliminated.

Writer: Andi Raisa Malaha Thambas