Srikandi Merdeka Cup Becomes Platform for Garuda Pertiwi to Develop

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The Srikandi Merdeka Cup 2026 has become an important platform for Garuda Pertiwi’s young players to sharpen their skills. The competition offers valuable opportunities to face opponents from different countries in an international setting.

Garuda Pertiwi played five matches over ten days during the tournament, gaining crucial experience in handling the pressures of competitive play.

Midfielder Jezlyn Kayla Azkha emphasized how the Srikandi Merdeka Cup helps players grow through match experience. “With the Srikandi Cup, we can continue to develop,” Jezlyn said in a statement released by the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) on Tuesday, August 25, 2026.

She added that the chance to compete is a vital step in the journey of young players aiming for higher levels. “We are very grateful to Pak Erick Thohir, Bu Vivin, and PSSI for launching the Srikandi Cup,” Jezlyn noted.

Facing teams from various countries has allowed players to identify strengths and areas that still need improvement. Jezlyn explained that international competition makes players feel recognized and motivated to progress.

“As Indonesian women footballers, we are truly happy. We are being given more opportunities and we feel appreciated,” she said.

This experience serves as an important foundation for young players to enhance their abilities and prepare for international challenges. Garuda Pertiwi hopes more tournaments like this will provide Indonesian women footballers with greater exposure and match experience.

The Srikandi Merdeka Cup 2026 was held from August 14-23, 2026, at Supersoccer Arena in Kudus, Central Java.

The tournament featured U‑16 women’s teams from seven countries, divided into eight squads. The participating countries included Indonesia, Hong Kong, Jordan, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, and Thailand.

Indonesia fielded two teams: Garuda Pertiwi and Putri Nusantara. Garuda Pertiwi advanced to the final but fell short, losing 1–0 to Thailand on Sunday, August 23, 2026. (Diffa Sephiawardhani)