Ramadhan Sananta: Embracing Competition in the Indonesian National Team
Jakarta, CNN Indonesia — In the dynamic world of football, competition is the lifeblood that drives players to excel. For Ramadhan Sananta, a seasoned striker for the Indonesian national team, the arrival of new talent is not a threat but an chance. Despite the challenges posed by the presence of Romeny, Sananta remains undeterred, ready to showcase his prowess on the field.
A New era Under Patrick Kluivert
the Indonesian national team recently welcomed Patrick Kluivert as their new coach. Known for his illustrious career as a Dutch attacker, Kluivert’s appointment marks a significant shift in the team’s strategy. Alongside this change, the PSSI introduced Romeny, a former FC Utrecht player now with Oxford United, as a naturalized member of the senior squad. Officially becoming an Indonesian citizen on February 2, 2025, Romeny is poised to be a key player in Kluivert’s era.
Embracing the Challenge
Sananta, with 10 caps and five goals to his name, acknowledges the stiff competition but remains confident.”Competition will remain competition. Good he is [Romeny] Coming to Indonesia, moreover he plays the same position as me as a striker, and that is not the reason I am afraid or surrender to compete with him. This is even a good challenge for me,” Sananta remarked during a meeting in Jakarta on February 22.
His determination is clear: to perform at his best at the club level, ensuring that Kluivert takes notice. “Surely I have to give my best, in the rest of the game [Liga 1] This was before being called to the Indonesian national team.So I have to show quality to the coach, all staff and others. I will work hard,” he emphasized.
Aiming for world Cup Qualification
With the Indonesian national team set to compete in the 2026 World Cup qualification starting in March, the stakes are high. Sananta is hopeful that Kluivert’s leadership will bring positive results and help him refine his skills as an attacker. The former PSM Makassar player is eager to contribute to the team’s success and prove his worth on the international stage.
As the team gears up for the challenges ahead, Sananta’s resilience and competitive spirit serve as a testament to his dedication to the sport and his country. With Kluivert at the helm, the indonesian national team is poised for a promising future, driven by talent, determination, and the spirit of competition.
Exclusive Interview: Benny Dollo Debates Indonesian Football’s Thrilling Rivalry – Sananta vs Romeny
About Benny Dollo: Benny Dollo is a renowned Indonesian football analyst and enthusiast with over two decades of experience in the sports industry. A former player himself, Dollo captained the Indonesian national team in his prime and maintains an intimate understanding of the game.Now, he’s a regular contributor to leading sports platforms, sharing his insights and sparking engaging debates.
Welcome to our exclusive interview, Benny! With the Indonesian national team set to compete in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, we’re seeing tough competition among attackers. How do you see ramadhan Sananta holding his ground against the newly-naturalized Romeny?
Benny Dollo: Thank you for having me. It’s indeed an exciting time for Indonesian football. Ramadhan Sananta has always been a dedicated and resilient player, even in the face of intense competition. With Romeny’s arrival, it’s not just about proving himself; it’s also about driving each othre to improved performance. I appreciate Sananta’s confident and professional approach to the situation.
Sananta recently commented,”This is even a good challenge for me.” Is this healthy competition, or might it be a sign of complacency given that they play the same position?
Benny Dollo: I think it’s healthy competition.Sananta knows what he’s talking about; he’s been in this position before. He’s not afraid of competition, and that’s what makes a great player. When you’re at the top, others will try to take yoru spot. It’s how you respond to that challenge that defines you.
What are your thoughts on Romeny’s integration into the team? Some critics argue that naturalizing foreign players dilutes the team’s national identity.
Benny dollo: It’s a double-edged sword, really. On one hand, Romeny brings valuable experience and skills that can elevate our team’s performance. On the other,it might raise questions about our squad’s national identity,as you mentioned. But let’s not forget, Indonesian football has seen success with foreign-born players in the past – players like Barreto, van der Kemp, and suddenly now, Romeny. It’s about balance.
New coach Patrick Kluivert has introduced a significant shift in strategy. How do you think Sananta will fare under this new era?
Benny Dollo: Kluivert’s appointment is a breath of fresh air. He brings a wealth of experience, both as a player and a coach. I beleive Sananta’s style of play under Kluivert could be quite interesting. Kluivert favors a swift, attack-minded style, and Sananta could thrive in that system.Plus, Kluivert isn’t afraid to play youth and give opportunities based on merit. This should motivate Sananta even further.
The World Cup is the ultimate stage for any footballer. How do you see this rivalry playing out in the qualifiers and beyond?
Benny Dollo: The 2026 world Cup qualification series is just around the corner, and qualification matches always bring out the best in players. Both Sananta and Romeny have the skills and determination to make a significant impact. Whoever performs better, not just individually, but also as part of the collective, will likely secure a starting spot. It’s a healthy competition that can only enhance our team’s dynamics.
Before we wrap up, do you agree with Sananta’s stance that competition should be embraced rather than feared? What about your thoughts on Romeny’s role in the team?
Benny Dollo: Absolutely, I agree with sananta. Competition brings out the best in us,pushes us to improve,and drives us to excel. As for Romeny, if he can adapt quickly, understand Indonesian football’s unique culture, and prove his quality, he’ll be a valuable addition to our team. The door is open for him, but he’ll need to take his chances and fight for his spot like everyone else.
Thanks, Benny, for your insightful responses! Now, it’s over to our readers: “Do you agree with Benny Dollo on this issue? Share your thoughts in the comments below!”
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Keyword Integration: Indonesian football, Ramadhan sananta, Romeny, Patrick Kluivert, World Cup qualifiers, national team dynamics, competition in sports, football analysis, Indonesian football culture
