RRI.CO.ID, Bogor - The Indonesian Men's National Football Team began their campaign in the 2026 AFF Cup or ASEAN Hyundai Cup 2026 with a convincing victory. Playing at the Gelora Pakansari Stadium, Bogor Regency, on the nite of Monday, July 27, 2026, the Garuda squad defeated Cambodia with a score of 5-1 in front of around 24 thousand supporters.

Three of Indonesia's five goals were scored by striker Mitchell Lee Baker, who has just officially become an Indonesian citizen (WNI). Two other goals were contributed by Sandy Henny Welsh and Jens Raven.

The Chairman of the All-Indonesian Football Association, Erick Thohir, considers the victory to be a positive start for the Indonesian National Team in Group A. However, he stated that the development of the game under coach John Herdman will only be seen in the upcoming matches, especially when facing Vietnam on Monday, August 3, 2026, at Gelora Pakansari Stadium.

"Yes, this is the best team we can provide for the AFF Cup, because this championship is not included in the FIFA window. This means that many players cannot join yet, and indeed there are some who are still strengthening teams abroad," Erick said.

According to him, the Indonesian national team still needs time to adapt under the leadership of John Herdman. Nevertheless, he believes that the approach and tactics implemented by the Canadian coach have already shown a positive direction.

"Hopefully, in the next performance, it can be better, and hopefully, the team will not have any injuries." Because I know there are some who are still recovering like Marcelino and Ragnar," he conveyed.

In addition to appreciating the team's performance, Minister Erick also expressed his gratitude to the Bogor Regency Government for the readiness of the Gelora Pakansari Stadium as the match host. He said the quality of the stadium facilities is now much better compared to the previous visit.

"Indeed, in conducting football activities, between the Central Government and the regions, all stakeholders, clubs, and the national team, they must struggle together." "Each one cannot have their own separate thoughts," The Chairman stated.

Erick hopes that the synergy between the central government, local governments, PSSI, and all stakeholders continues to be strengthened to support the advancement of national football. He also reminded the importance of maintaining the quality of Gelora Pakansari Stadium, which is currently the home ground of one of the Liga 1 Indonesia clubs.

"I was surprised, the facility preparations are much better than the last time I came here. I appreciate it." Hopefully, other local governments also care about football," Erick said.