What will the debut match of 'Dutch legend' Patrick Kluivert (49) look like?
The Agence France-Presse reported on the 18th (Korean time) that South Korea and Japan, along with other Asian countries, will begin the third round of qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA North and Central America World Cup during the international match period, while also noting interest in the Indonesia national team.
The Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) appointed Coach Kluivert after unexpectedly dismissing Coach Shin Tae-yong last January. The former coach had achieved good results by actively naturalizing Indonesian-born Dutch players, leading to the decision to hire a Dutch coach.
Since Taking office as Indonesia's head coach in 2020, Coach Shin has overseen the youth national teams as well, contributing to the growth of Indonesian football. The team finished as runners-up in the 2020 ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) Suzuki Cup and reached the semifinals in the 2022 AFF Mitsubishi Cup.
The Agence France-Presse noted, "Indonesia has strengthened its Dutch identity," showing interest in the team that will face Australia away on the 20th, followed by a home match against Bahrain on the 25th.
The outlet particularly highlighted the match to be held in Sydney, Australia, stating, "This match will be the first game led by Dutch legend Kluivert as he takes charge of Indonesia."
It also noted that "Indonesia is actively recruiting Dutch-born players in hopes of qualifying for the World Cup finals for the first time since gaining independence from the Netherlands in 1945," and added that "so far, 12 Dutch-born players have joined the national team."
Indonesia added Jordi Cruyff as a technical advisor last month. Jordi Cruyff is the son of legendary Dutch forward Johan Cruyff.
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