TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Indonesian national football team will participate in the FIFA Series 2026, scheduled in Jakarta from March 23–31. The biennial tournament will feature four nations from different confederations: Indonesia (AFC), Bulgaria (UEFA), the Solomon Islands (OFC), and Saint Kitts and Nevis (CONCACAF).
Matchups Confirmed
Chairm of the National Team Agency (BTN) Sumardji confirmed that Indonesia will face Saint Kitts and Nevis in the first semifinal on Friday, March 27, 08:00 PM WIB. Earlier that day at 03:30 PM WIB, Bulgaria will take on the Solomon Islands in the second semifinal.
The winners will advance to the final on Monday, March 31, 08:00 PM WIB, while the losing teams will compete for third place at 03:30 PM WIB.
In terms of FIFA rankings, Bulgaria leads the group at 88th, followed by Indonesia (122nd), the Solomon Islands (152nd), and Saint Kitts and Nevis (154th).
The tournament will follow a knockout format starting from the semifinals. While the stadium is yet to be officially announced, the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) has indicated the event will take place in Jakarta.
Debut for Coach John Herdman
The FIFA Series 2026 will also mark the debut of Indonesia’s new head coach, John Herdman, officially introduced on January 13, 2026. The match against Saint Kitts and Nevis will be the first opportunity for fans to see Herdman’s tactics in action.
PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir highlighted the tournament’s importance for team development. “Facing teams from Europe, Oceania, and the Americas gives the squad crucial exposure to different playing styles. This is both a test and an opportunity to build a competitive team ready for global challenges,” he said.
Following the FIFA Series, Indonesia will compete in the ASEAN Cup (AFF Cup) at the end of July and participate in FIFA Match Days ahead of the 2027 Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia.
With opponents from multiple confederations, the FIFA Series 2026 will serve as a key benchmark for the Garuda squad to evaluate their technical and mental readiness for upcoming international competitions.
FIFA Series 2026 Schedule (Jakarta)
Friday, March 27, 2026
Semifinal 2: Bulgaria vs Solomon Islands – 03:30 PM WIB
Semifinal 1: Indonesia vs Saint Kitts and Nevis – 08:00 PM WIB
Monday, March 31, 2026
Match for Third Place – 03:30 PM WIB
Final – 08:00 PM WIB
Read: FFI Awaits Progress on Indonesia's 2028 Futsal World Cup Bid
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