October 16, 2025 | 04:01 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The tenure of Patrick Kluivert as Indonesia’s national football coach has officially ended following the team’s failure to advance to the 2026 World Cup.
The Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI) dismissed the Dutch tactician four days after Indonesia was eliminated in the fourth round of Asian qualifiers.
The Garuda squad’s 0–1 loss to Iraq on Sunday, October 12, sealed their fate, leaving them at the bottom of Group B. Earlier, Indonesia had fallen 2-3 to Saudi Arabia in their opening match on Thursday, October 9.
The two defeats ensured Saudi Arabia’s top position in the group after a goalless draw against Iraq on Wednesday, October 15.
PSSI announced the termination of Kluivert’s contract on Thursday, October 16, 2025, stating that the decision was reached by mutual agreement. “The step was taken based on internal evaluations and future strategic plans for national team development,” the federation said in an official statement.
From High Hopes to a Disappointing Exit
Kluivert, 49, was appointed head coach on January 8, 2025, replacing South Korea’s Shin Tae-yong, who was dismissed earlier that month. The former Barcelona and Netherlands striker signed a two-year deal with an extension option.
His primary mission was to guide Indonesia to its first-ever World Cup appearance. The long-term vision included leading the team to the 2028 Olympics and the 2030 World Cup.
However, the dream ended prematurely. Despite moments of promise, the team’s inconsistency, particularly in away matches, proved costly.
Performance Under Kluivert
Since his appointment, Kluivert led Indonesia in eight official matches, recording mixed results. The team began its World Cup qualifying campaign in Group C of the Asian zone’s third round.
March 20, 2025: Lost 1–5 to Australia (away)
March 25, 2025: Won 1–0 over Bahrain (home)
June 5, 2025: Won 1–0 against China (home)
June 10, 2025: Lost 0–6 to Japan (away)
Despite heavy defeats to Australia and Japan, Indonesia advanced to the fourth round by finishing fourth in Group C behind Japan, Australia, and Saudi Arabia.
In preparation for the next stage, Indonesia held two FIFA Match Day friendlies in September: a 6–0 victory against Taiwan and a 0-0 draw with Lebanon at Gelora Bung Tomo Stadium in Surabaya.
Those results raised optimism ahead of the decisive fourth-round matches. Yet in Jeddah, the Garuda squad’s campaign collapsed after losing 2-3 to Saudi Arabia and 0-1 to Iraq.
What’s Next for Indonesian Football?
Kluivert’s departure marks another chapter in Indonesia’s ongoing search for a consistent football identity. PSSI said it remains committed to developing the national team and will soon announce a new coaching direction.
During his short stint, Kluivert managed two wins, two draws, and four losses across eight matches. His brief era offered glimpses of tactical progress but also highlighted the gaps in depth and experience that Indonesia must address to compete at the highest level.
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