Jordi Amat Reveals Coach John Herdman’s Key Focus for the Indonesian National Team Ahead of the 2026 AFF Championship

Defender Jordi Amat has shared a crucial directive from Indonesian National Team head coach John Herdman as the squad gears up for the 2026 AFF Championship. Herdman’s primary objective, according to Amat, is to meticulously identify and amplify the inherent strengths of the Indonesian players. This strategic emphasis on leveraging existing capabilities is central to the team’s preparation and their aspirations for success in the upcoming regional tournament.

"The coach wants to teach and show us what strengths we possess," Amat stated during a break in the Indonesian National Team’s training sessions, as quoted by CNN Indonesia TV on Friday, July 24th. This sentiment underscores a coaching philosophy focused on building upon the team’s existing foundation rather than solely introducing new elements. It suggests a desire to foster confidence and a clear understanding of individual and collective capabilities within the squad.

Building Momentum: The Garuda’s Preparatory Journey

The 34-year-old defender elaborated on the overarching strategy guiding the Garuda squad’s training regimen in the lead-up to the 2026 AFF Championship. From his perspective, the progress and enhancement of the Red and White team’s quality are evident. This sentiment is further bolstered by the team’s recent performance in a friendly match against Bali United, where they secured a commanding 3-0 victory. The promising outcome was attributed to goals from Marc Klok, Dony Tri Pamungkas, and Mitchell Baker, showcasing the team’s offensive prowess.

"What I can say is, based on the last match and also the last two weeks, there is cohesion among the players. There is a connection between the players," Amat remarked, highlighting the positive impact of the current training program on team dynamics. This emphasis on "cohesion" and "connection" is a vital component of any successful football team, suggesting that Herdman’s approach is fostering a strong sense of unity and understanding on the pitch.

The Road to the AFF Championship: A Detailed Schedule

The Indonesian National Team’s campaign in the 2026 AFF Championship is slated to commence on Monday, July 27th, with an opening match against Cambodia. Securing a victory in this initial fixture is deemed essential for Rizky Ridho and his teammates, providing crucial momentum and a solid foundation for their subsequent group stage encounters.

Following their encounter with Cambodia, the Garuda squad will travel to Thailand to face Timor Leste on Friday, July 31st. The challenging group stage will then see John Herdman’s charges host Vietnam on Monday, August 3rd, before embarking on another away fixture against Singapore on Friday, August 7th. This demanding schedule requires meticulous planning, consistent performance, and the ability to adapt to different playing environments and opponent styles.

Strategic Significance of Herdman’s Approach

Coach John Herdman’s focus on identifying and developing the team’s inherent strengths is a strategic move that can yield significant benefits. In the high-pressure environment of a regional tournament like the AFF Championship, understanding and maximizing individual player talents, alongside their collective synergy, can be the difference between success and disappointment.

• Player Empowerment: By highlighting strengths, Herdman empowers individual players, fostering a sense of value and encouraging them to perform at their peak. This can lead to increased confidence and a willingness to take risks when necessary.
• Tactical Clarity: A clear understanding of the team’s strengths allows for the development of more focused and effective tactical strategies. The team can build its game plan around what it does best, making it harder for opponents to counter.
• Team Cohesion: As Amat mentioned, Herdman’s approach appears to be fostering a strong sense of connection. When players understand their roles and how their strengths complement those of their teammates, it creates a more cohesive and fluid unit.
• Adaptability: While focusing on strengths, a good coach also ensures the team can adapt. Identifying strengths doesn’t mean neglecting weaknesses, but rather building a strong base from which to address areas for improvement.

The AFF Championship: A Prestigious Regional Tournament

The AFF Championship, formerly known as the Tiger Cup and then the AFF Suzuki Cup, is the premier men’s football competition contested by the national teams of the member nations of the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF). Established in 1996, the tournament has grown in stature and popularity over the years, serving as a crucial platform for Southeast Asian football development and a source of immense national pride.

The competition typically features a group stage followed by a knockout phase, culminating in a two-legged final. Teams vie for regional supremacy, with past champions including Thailand, Singapore, Vietnam, and Malaysia. The 2026 edition promises to be another fiercely contested tournament, with the Indonesian National Team aiming to make a significant impact.

Historical Context and Indonesian Ambitions

Indonesia has a proud history in the AFF Championship, having reached the final on multiple occasions, though they are yet to lift the coveted trophy. Their consistent presence in the latter stages of the competition underscores their potential and the aspirations of a nation that deeply loves the sport. The appointment of John Herdman, a coach with international experience, signals a renewed determination to break this final barrier and achieve continental glory.

Herdman, who previously coached the Canadian men’s national team and led them to qualification for the FIFA World Cup, brings a wealth of experience and a reputation for building strong, disciplined teams. His tenure with the Indonesian National Team is seen as a significant step towards elevating the team’s performance on the regional and potentially international stage.

The Importance of Pre-Tournament Friendlies

The friendly match against Bali United, as highlighted by Amat, is a crucial element of the team’s preparation. These matches serve several vital purposes:

• Performance Assessment: They provide an opportunity for the coaching staff to assess player fitness, tactical execution, and overall team performance in a competitive setting.
• Squad Selection: Friendlies help in finalizing the squad for the main tournament by giving players a chance to prove their worth and for the coach to identify the most effective combinations.
• Tactical Experimentation: Coaches can use these matches to experiment with different formations, strategies, and player roles without the immediate pressure of tournament points.
• Building Chemistry: As Amat emphasized, these games are instrumental in developing the on-field chemistry and understanding between players, particularly for new additions or players returning from injury.

The convincing 3-0 victory over Bali United, with goals from key players, suggests that the team is responding well to Herdman’s guidance and that their pre-tournament preparations are on the right track.

Looking Ahead: The Challenges and Opportunities

The 2026 AFF Championship presents a significant opportunity for the Indonesian National Team to make a statement. The path to the final will undoubtedly be challenging, with strong contenders from across Southeast Asia. However, with a clear strategic focus from the coaching staff, a growing sense of team cohesion, and the dedication of the players, Indonesia is poised to make a strong bid for the championship.

The initial matches against Cambodia and Timor Leste will be crucial for setting the tone and building confidence. The subsequent encounters against formidable opponents like Vietnam and Singapore will serve as stern tests of their capabilities and their progress under Herdman’s tutelage. The success of this campaign will not only be measured by the trophy but also by the continued development and growth of the Indonesian National Team as a formidable force in Asian football. The focus on "strengths" is a wise starting point, aiming to build a winning mentality from a solid foundation of proven capabilities.