Jakarta – The initial squad selection by Indonesia national team coach John Herdman is already generating international buzz, with media in the Netherlands taking note of the inclusion of two players with Dutch connections ahead of the upcoming FIFA Series.
Herdman recently announced a preliminary 41-man roster as he prepares for his debut at the helm of the Indonesian side. The FIFA Series, scheduled to take place from March 27th to 30th at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta, will see Indonesia face Saint Kitts and Nevis on March 27th. A potential second match will follow on March 30th against either Bulgaria or the Solomon Islands. Before the Saint Kitts and Nevis match, Herdman will trim the squad to 35 players.
Even as the majority of Herdman’s initial call-ups consist of established players, the inclusion of Jens Raven (Bali United) and Tim Geypens (FC Emmen) has piqued the interest of Dutch football observers. Both players, while having represented Indonesia at youth levels, are relatively new to the senior national team setup.
Dutch Media Spotlight New Indonesian Call-Ups
The selection process has not gone unnoticed in the Netherlands, with Voetbalzone publishing a dedicated article on the matter. “Indonesia is holding a pre-selection, with two new Dutch names on the list,” the report stated on March 12th. The article specifically highlighted Herdman’s decision to offer opportunities to Raven and Geypens, both of whom have roots in Dutch football.
Voetbalzone detailed that Herdman has announced a provisional squad for the Indonesian national team, noting the inclusion of several new faces, including the two players with Dutch heritage. “Jens Raven and Tim Geypens are new to the initial squad,” the report confirmed.
Jens Raven, currently playing for Bali United, has previously represented Indonesia at the U-19, U-20, U-22 and U-23 levels. His inclusion represents a step up to the senior team, offering a potential boost to Indonesia’s attacking options. Raven has a proven track record at the youth levels, having scored 17 goals in 29 appearances across all age groups.
Tim Geypens, who plays for FC Emmen, too brings youth international experience to the table. His call-up signifies Herdman’s willingness to explore new talent and integrate players with potential into the national team framework.
The focus on players with Dutch connections is a notable aspect of Herdman’s early team-building efforts. It suggests a strategy of potentially tapping into a wider pool of talent with European experience and training backgrounds. This approach could prove valuable as Indonesia aims to improve its competitiveness on the international stage.
Herdman’s decision to largely retain a core group of established players alongside these new faces demonstrates a pragmatic approach to his debut. He appears to be prioritizing stability and familiarity while simultaneously opening doors for emerging talent. This balanced strategy aims to provide a solid foundation for the team while fostering a sense of opportunity and competition within the squad.
The upcoming FIFA Series represents a crucial opportunity for Herdman to assess his players and begin implementing his tactical vision. The matches against Saint Kitts and Nevis, and potentially Bulgaria or the Solomon Islands, will serve as valuable preparation for future international commitments, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.
For Raven and Geypens, the FIFA Series presents a chance to make a strong impression and establish themselves as key members of the Indonesian national team. Their performances will be closely watched by both fans and the Dutch media, as they seek to prove their worth on the international stage.
The Indonesian national team’s preparations are well underway, and the anticipation is building as the FIFA Series draws closer. With a mix of experienced players and promising newcomers, Herdman’s squad is poised to embark on a new chapter in Indonesian football. The matches at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium are expected to draw large crowds, as fans eagerly await the opportunity to witness the team’s progress under its new leadership.
The selection of these two players, while seemingly a minor detail, has resonated across borders, highlighting the growing interest in Indonesian football and the impact of Herdman’s appointment. As the team prepares for its upcoming matches, all eyes will be on Jakarta to see how these new additions perform and contribute to the national team’s success.
The next confirmed checkpoint for the Indonesian national team is the match against Saint Kitts and Nevis on March 27th at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium. Fans can follow updates and official news through the official PSSI website and social media channels.
