RRI.CO.ID, Bogor - Indonesian national football team head coach John Herdman apologized to supporters after the team's defeat to Vietnam in the 2026 ASEAN Hyundai Cup. Indonesia lost 3-0 in the Group A match held at Pakansari Stadium, Bogor Regency, West Java, on Monday, August 3.

Herdman began his remarks by congratulating Vietnam, whom he said performed better throughout the crucial match. According to him, Vietnam deserved to take all three points after displaying effective and disciplined football for the full 90 minutes.

The English coach admitted that the Garuda squad's performance fell short of expectations, resulting in a disappointing outcome. He emphasized that the team must immediately learn from the defeat before facing the decisive match against Singapore.

"We will be frustrated and angry for a short time, but now we have to refocus on the next match," Herdman said. He stressed that Indonesia still has a chance, so every player must focus on securing victory in the upcoming game.

Herdman said Group A has been highly competitive, making every match a major challenge for all participating teams. Although Indonesia's position is not where it had hoped to be, he assured that the players would continue fighting until the final group-stage match.

He also thanked the supporters who continued backing the team until the final whistle despite the defeat. Herdman said their support provides strong motivation for the squad to recover and deliver a better performance.

"To the fans, I apologize for tonight because you were incredible and kept supporting us until the end," he said. Herdman added that Indonesia must bounce back and produce its best response when facing Singapore in the next decisive match.

Indonesia is scheduled to face Singapore in the final Group A match of the 2026 ASEAN Hyundai Cup on Thursday, August 7, 2026. The match represents the Garuda squad's final opportunity to keep their hopes of reaching the semifinals alive with a crucial victory. (Diffa Sephiawardhani)