TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Indonesian national team will kick off their campaign in the ASEAN Championship or the 2026 AFF Cup, by facing Cambodia in the opening match of Group A at Pakansari Stadium, Bogor, on Monday evening, July 27, 2026. The match, which will start at 8:30 p.m. Jakarta time, presents the first opportunity for the Garuda squad to build momentum in their quest for the championship title.
Indonesia's coach, John Herdman, has urged his players not to be complacent with the home advantage or Cambodia's first match result. According to him, the opponent is "organized" and "very disciplined."
"They'll be tough," said Herdman in a press conference at Pakansari Stadium on Sunday, July 26, 2026, referring to the Cambodian team.
Herdman stated that his team's focus is not solely on defeating Cambodia, but also on building the playing identity that has been designed during the training camp in Bali. He believed that the opening match is a crucial moment to strengthen the team's connection, chemistry, and tactical implementation. "Our focus is on our tactical identity, our connection, our chemistry, and our spirit. If we display our best performance, I believe we'll be okay," said the Canadian coach.
He also acknowledged that Cambodia has an advantage as they have already played one match in the tournament. The team led by Koji Gyotoku previously lost 1-2 to Singapore but is considered to have gained a competitive rhythm. "Cambodia has played one match, so they'll be in good rhythm, and they'll be ready," said Herdman.
Although not playing at the main Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Herdman ensured that his team was still enthusiastic about playing at Pakansari. He mentioned that the players have shown positive development since gathering in Bali.
Indonesian goalkeeper Nadeo Argawinata also emphasized that his team does not underestimate Cambodia. According to him, the opponent's loss to Singapore is not a true reflection of their strength. "We watched Cambodia's match against Singapore, but it does not make us consider them an easy team to beat. We remain focused on our own playing identity and following the coach's instructions," said Nadeo.
On the opposing side, coach Koji Gyotoku admitted that the negative result in the first match was a blow to his team. However, he ensured that Cambodia would still put up a strong fight despite having limited preparation time.
Head-to-head records
In terms of head-to-head records, Indonesia has the upper hand against Cambodia.
The Garuda team has always won in the last five meetings, including a 2-1 victory in the AFF Cup 2022. Indonesia's performance trend is also quite convincing after achieving four victories in the last five matches, including wins against Oman 3-0, Mozambique 1-0, and Bali United 3-0 in friendly matches.
On the other hand, Cambodia comes with one win and one loss in their last two matches in June and July 2026. The need points to keeping their chances of advancing from the group stage after the 2-1 loss to Singapore.
Based on the conditions of both teams, Indonesia is favored to secure three points. Playing in front of their own supporters, having better individual quality, and a dominant head-to-head record are advantages for Herdman's squad. However, Cambodia's disciplined play has the potential to pose difficulties for Indonesia, especially if the Garuda team fails to capitalize on early opportunities.
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