Indonesian Football Seven Eyes Global Stage with Rome Debut

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - From community fields to the international arena, the Indonesian national Football Seven team is preparing to make its mark at the prestigious Intercontinental Cup in Rome, Italy, this August.

Indonesia Football 7 Federation Chairman Dudung Abdurachman said the team is targeting strong results in its debut appearance.

“From small pitches we build big dreams, from communities we step onto the world stage. Football Seven Indonesia begins today, and we will carry it until the world knows Indonesia,” Dudung, who also serves as Chief of Presidential Staff, said in a statement on Friday, May 1, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

Confident in the nation’s human resources, Dudung noted that with a population of 280 million, Indonesia should be able to produce at least seven outstanding players capable of representing the country at the highest level.

He stressed that the main challenges for Indonesian athletes globally lie in mental strength and discipline. “To compete internationally, we must forge a competitive spirit and a fighting mentality that never gives up,” said the former Army Chief of Staff.

To instill discipline and mental resilience, Dudung has enlisted South Korean coach Shin Tae-yong as Technical Advisor. Shin, who previously led Indonesian national football team to the third round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, is expected to bring his high standards to the squad.

“Alhamdulillah, Shin Tae-yong agreed because of his love for Indonesia,” Dudung added.

Operationally, the team will be managed by professional coaches under the leadership of Socrates Matulessy, with Shin overseeing development to ensure the program stays on track.

The Indonesia Football 7 Federation has been officially affiliated with the International Football 7 Federation (FIF7) since 2011. The sport already has a strong domestic ecosystem, supported by around 1,700 mini soccer fields nationwide.

National training camp is scheduled to begin one month before departure to Italy. The federation hopes continued collaboration with stakeholders, including the Indonesian Footbal Association (PSSI), will strengthen the advancement of Indonesian football.

Football 7, also known as Football Seven, is a variation of soccer played with seven players per team on a smaller field, offering a faster-paced and more community-friendly format than traditional 11-a-side football. ***