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  • Patrick Kluivert Dismissed as Indonesia’s Head Coach

    After almost a year, the Dutch coach is officially no longer in charge of the national team. Through official PSSI statement, both parties agreed to end their partnership. Is this the perfect ending?

    Patrick Kluivert (pssi.org)

    Departs with a lackluster reputation

    Shocking news for Indonesian football came today. Not long after failing to advance to round 5 disappointment, PSSI delivered another breaking report. Patrick Kluivert, Indonesia’s National Team Head Coach, has officially ended his journey with the Garuda since his first arrival in January 2025.

    ‘‘The termination of this partnership was carried out based on mutual agreement between both parties, taking into consideration internal dynamics and the strategic direction of the national team going forward,” said PSSI on its official statement.”

    In fact, Kluivert’s contract is still valid until 2027, with an option to extend for another two years. However, he only managed the national team for eight matches. This sudden decision is said to be the result of the Indonesian national team’s failure to advance to the next round.

    The departure of the 49-year-old coach is also very depressing, as he failed to meet expectations. He holds the hope of keeping Indonesia’s dream alive of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup in the US, Canada, and Mexico. Three wins, one draw, and four losses were achieved by Patrick out of eight total games.

    Waiting for Patrick Kluivert’s successor

    After Kluivert sudden exit, fans began to speculate on his replacement. Many comments suggest that PSSI should select a proper coach who understands the characteristics of Indonesian football. Therefore, the Garuda still has future goals, such as perform well at the 2027 Asian Cup.

    The two most heavily rumored names on the internet are Jesus Casas, former Iraq coach, and Shin Tae-Yong, which was Kluivert’s predecessor. Both names are actually well known due to their familiarity with Asian football culture. Other figures such as Giovanni van Bronckhorst, who has Indonesian heritage, were also brought up.

    ”The Patrick Kluivert era has officially come to an end. Do you think the ending was tragic, or did the public just put too much hope in him?”

    Read more: Indonesia Has To Say Goodbye To World Cup 2026, Who’s To Blame?

  • Indonesia Has To Say Goodbye To World Cup 2026, Who’s To Blame?

    Indonesia’s dream of competing in the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico has officially ended. The Garuda was defeated by Iraq with a 1-0 result through Zidane Iqbal’s only goal in the 76th minute. Let’s reflect on Garuda’s recent hard-fought journey below.

    Indonesia National Team (pssi.org)

    Crushed in Round 4, Is This Expected?

    The Indonesian national team began their campaign in a group with Saudi Arabia and Iraq. Indonesia’s main target was to at least secure second spot if they couldn’t win the group. Many believed that Indonesia could at least win or steal points from Saudi Arabia, who they had beaten 2-0 in Jakarta a while before.

    If the plan successful, Indonesia’s chances of qualifying directly for the World Cup or advancing to Round 5 are wide open.

    ”As a serious commitment, PSSI added another naturalized player, Mauro Zijlstra and Miliano Jonathans. The arrival of both of them is expected to have an instant impact, bringing Garuda closer to the dream.”

    Unfortunately, Indonesia suffered a harsh 2-3 defeat in their first match against Saudi Arabia. What’s make people disappointed was the Garuda’s performance are below their best. Players such as Marc Klok, Beckham Putra, and Yakob Sayuri were openly criticized.

    Furthermore, the coach’s decision regarding player composition raised big questions. As Yakob Sayuri, who originally played right wing, was placed at right back. This resulted in several Saudi Arabia goals coming from Yakob’s side.

    In a do-or-die match against Iraq, Indonesia actually took control of the game and created several chances. Nevertheless, Indonesia suffered a 1-0 defeat due to Zidane Iqbal’s lone goal in the 76th minute. Kudos to all the players and staff for their efforts in making it this far.

    Patrick Kluivert’s Future Remains Uncertain

    After failing to take the national team further, Patrick Kluivert’s position as coach is once again being questioned. This is especially brought after his predecessor, Shin Tae-Yong, was surprisingly fired after maintain the team staying on track. Now, the public considers it unfair if Patrick is not fired after having unfavorable results.

    However, Patrick said that the Indonesian team played better in the match, but unfortunately the outcome did not seem to reflect the same thing. On the other hand, some point the finger more at Erick Thohir, PSSI Chairman, and the Federation for making major changes midway through the process.

    ”The internet was buzzing with the hashtag #KluivertOut as the fans could only compare it to the shining days of Shin Tae-Yong’s era.”