RRI.CO.ID, Chonburi - Indonesia's national football team head coach John Herdman praised the Garuda squad’s fighting mentality after their 3–0 victory over Timor Leste in the second Group A match of the ASEAN Hyundai Cup 2026 at Chonburi Stadium, Thailand, on Friday, July 31.

Herdman highlighted the team’s disciplined approach of focusing on each match individually, without looking ahead to future opponents. He stressed that such a mindset helps players maintain concentration under pressure.

“As we always say, one match at a time, never underestimate the opponent,” he told reporters.

The English coach underlined that every fixture presents unique challenges requiring teamwork and discipline. He noted that Indonesia’s players proved their quality by finishing strongly against Timor Leste.

“They showed today they can close out a match with strength. Three goals in the last 25 minutes are remarkable,” Herdman said.

He added that the late surge reflected the squad’s growing character, with players sustaining intensity and unity until the final whistle. “It shows our team’s character--that we can fight through the last 20 minutes, stay solid, and finish together,” he explained, calling it an important foundation for Indonesia’s campaign.

The result gave Indonesia six points from two matches, placing them at the top of Group A. Herdman believes the victory will boost confidence as the Garuda prepare for their next test against Vietnam. (Diffa Sephiawardhani)