RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta – Indonesia’s national futsal squad is preparing for a crucial overseas training camp in Spain from August 11–23, 2026, a move head coach Hector Souto believes will help bridge the gap between Asian teams and the sport’s global powerhouses.

More than just preparation for the 2028 FIFA Futsal World Cup, the camp is designed to give players the kind of international exposure that has long been missing. Hector, who hails from Spain, stressed the importance of testing Indonesia against stronger opponents.

“The target now is to raise our level and compete against European and South American teams. This is the first step,” he said in a press conference on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, as quoted by Antara.

Hector acknowledged that results may not immediately favor Indonesia, but insisted the focus is on learning. “We know we might not win any of the four matches, but the most important thing is implementing new ideas into the team,” he added.

The camp will involve 20 players, marking the first time Indonesia’s senior futsal team trains in Spain. Hector hopes the experience will also open doors for Indonesian players to be scouted by Spanish clubs.

“It would be a great experience if they had the chance to be recruited. Many of our players, even at senior level, are enthusiastic about the possibility,” he said.

He pointed out that Indonesian players often struggle to attract international attention due to limited visibility. “Honestly, talent exists everywhere. But the exposure that European and South American players receive from a young age is far greater than here,” Hector explained.

He sees the camp as a way to close that gap step by step. “Our responsibility is to catch up, to move closer little by little. Hopefully, in 20 years, we can compete directly with them,” he concluded.

This initiative highlights Indonesia’s broader ambition: to elevate its futsal program beyond regional success and into the global spotlight. By combining competitive matches with cultural immersion in Spain’s futsal environment, the Garuda squad aims to gain both tactical lessons and professional opportunities. ***