Marselino Ferdinan Returns as Indonesia Extends Winning Run

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Marselino Ferdinan marked his return to international football with a victory as Indonesia defeated Mozambique 1-0 in a FIFA Matchday fixture, ending a lengthy absence caused by recurring injuries.

The 21-year-old midfielder had not played for the national team since October last year due to a series of injury problems.

His comeback was briefly delayed by a hamstring issue sustained during Indonesia's 3-0 victory over Oman last Friday, but he finally returned to the starting lineup against Mozambique on Tuesday, June 9, 2026.

"Grateful to be back on the pitch with back-to-back victories," Marselino wrote on Instagram on Wednesday, June 10, as quoted by Antara.

The midfielder played 65 minutes before being replaced by Rayhan Hannan. Wearing the No. 7 shirt, he contributed 24 successful passes, two tackles, one shot on target, one blocked shot, and missed a clear scoring opportunity, according to statistics from Lapangbola.

His best chance came in the 21st minute when Indonesia nearly scored from a high-pressing situation.

After Ole Romeny's effort was spilled, Marselino collected the loose ball and shot toward an open net, but a Mozambique defender cleared the attempt from the goal line.

Indonesia eventually secured the win through a goal from Romeny, giving the Garuda a second consecutive FIFA Matchday victory after their 3-0 triumph over Oman.

Marselino's return was warmly welcomed by Romeny, who also plays alongside him at English club Oxford United.

The match against Mozambique marked the first time the pair had represented Indonesia together since the team's final match of the third round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, a 6-0 defeat to Japan in June last year.

"My relationship with Lino is very good. At Oxford, we spend a lot of time together, so he feels like a younger brother to me," said Romeny, who scored his sixth goal for Indonesia.

"On the pitch, we understand each other. He knows when I'm making a run or entering the penalty area. We enjoy playing together," he added. ***