RRI. CO. ID, Jakarta - Indonesia may have fallen short in the FIFA Series 2026 final, but national team's coach John Herdman pointed to a bright spot in Calvin Verdonk, whose versatility and influence could shape the team’s future.

Speaking after Indonesia’s narrow 0-1 loss to Bulgaria at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta on Monday, March 30, 2026, Herdman praised Verdonk as a “complete player” capable of impacting both defense and attack.

“His performance tonight was outstanding. He is a complete player. He has tactical intelligence, speed, stamina, acceleration, and great vision,” John Herdman said during the post-match press conference, as quoted by Antara.

Verdonk was deployed in a more advanced role for the match, operating not only as a defensive midfielder but also as an attacking playmaker in a “number 10” position.

The role shift reflects his growing importance in Indonesia’s system, having previously been used mainly as a left-back or center-back during the Shin Tae-yong era, before transitioning into midfield since the Patrick Kluivert period.

Herdman suggested that the Lille player could become central to Indonesia’s midfield control moving forward. “I think Calvin will be a big part of this team’s future in controlling the tempo,” he said, adding that the player “deserved more” from the match.

Verdonk himself expressed readiness to adapt to any role assigned. “I will play wherever the coach puts me, midfield, full-back, center-back, even number 10. It doesn’t matter,” he said in the mixed zone, noting his commitment to the team.

At club level, Verdonk has made 21 appearances for Lille this season, including in Ligue 1 and the Europa League, contributing to the team’s strong league position and a run to the round of 16 in Europe.

Despite the defeat, Herdman maintained that Indonesia deserved more from the match. His side dominated possession with 71 percent compared to Bulgaria’s 29 percent but lacked efficiency in front of goal.

Indonesia recorded six shots with only one on target, while Bulgaria made their chances count, including Marin Petkov’s decisive penalty in the 38th minute. “Tonight should have been Indonesia’s victory. We played better, but Bulgaria managed the game well, slowing it down and controlling the rhythm," Herdman said.

He also pointed to misfortune, referencing Ole Romeny’s effort that struck the crossbar. “If you ask why we didn’t score, maybe ask the crossbar,” he remarked.

The defeat leaves Herdman with one win and one loss from his first two matches in charge, with Indonesia scoring four goals and conceding once. While disappointed, the coach believes the experience will help the team grow stronger. “We are disappointed. It hurts, very painful. But I believe the players will learn and improve,” he concluded. ***