JAKARTA – The Indonesian national football team is poised for a significant international test as it prepares to host the FIFA Series 2026 from March 23-31. The National Team Board Chairman, Sumardji, officially confirmed the schedule, headlined by a semifinal encounter between Indonesia and the Caribbean nation of St. Kitts and Nevis.
The marquee match, designated as Semifinal 1, is scheduled for March 27 at 8:00 PM local time. This fixture presents a formidable challenge for the Indonesian squad, pitting them against a side currently ranked 154th in the global FIFA standings.
The tournament bracket features a second semifinal on the same day, with Bulgaria slated to face the Solomon Islands in a 3:30 PM kickoff. The structure ensures competitive action for all participants; the victors of each semifinal will advance to the tournament final on March 30 at 8:00 PM, while the defeated teams will compete for third place in a separate match earlier that day at 3:30 PM.
While the exact venue for the matches remains to be finalized by organizers, the Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI) has previously indicated that the capital city of Jakarta is the planned host for the biennial event.
Beyond the competition, the series is viewed as a critical developmental opportunity. Erick Thohir, a key football official, emphasized the strategic value of facing opponents from diverse confederations. “Confronting teams from Europe, Oceania, and the Americas provides a variety of playing styles that is vital for our team’s development,” he stated, noting that players will gain invaluable mental and technical experience. He characterized the event as both a rigorous test and a prime opportunity to build a stronger, more cohesive national squad.
Adding a layer of anticipation for local fans, the match will serve as the highly anticipated debut of newly appointed head coach John Herdman. Introduced last month, Herdman’s tactical approach and leadership will be under scrutiny as he begins his tenure steering the Indonesian team.