Kevin Diks Praises John Herdman Ahead of Indonesia vs Bulgaria FIFA Series Match

JAKARTA – As the Indonesian national team prepares for a challenging final match in the FIFA Series 2026 against Bulgaria on Monday evening at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta, defender Kevin Diks has emphasized the positive impact of latest head coach John Herdman and his own willingness to contribute wherever needed on the pitch.

The match, scheduled for 8:00 PM local time (13:00 UTC), comes on the heels of Indonesia’s convincing 4-0 victory over Saint Kitts and Nevis, a result Diks believes has provided a crucial boost in momentum as the team embarks on this new chapter under Herdman’s leadership. The win secured Indonesia’s place in the final of the FIFA Series.

“The previous win gave us a little extra momentum in the new beginning we are experiencing with the coach and the new coaching staff,” Diks said, as reported by Kompas.com. “So I think everything is going very well and the atmosphere is also positive, and that’s important.”

Herdman’s Proactive Approach

Diks was quick to praise Herdman’s approach, highlighting the clarity and directness of the coach’s instructions and the proactive nature of his engagement with the players. Unlike some coaching transitions, Herdman’s work began well before the current FIFA Series, a factor Diks believes has been key to the team’s rapid adaptation.

“I think we are adapting very quickly. It’s very clear what he demands from us. He didn’t just start this week, but since he was appointed as coach,” Diks explained. According to Diks, Herdman reached out to over 40 players, demonstrating a comprehensive and thorough preparation process. This extensive outreach underscores Herdman’s commitment to building a strong and cohesive squad.

Beyond tactical adjustments, Diks noted that Herdman has clearly communicated his objectives for the national team, emphasizing the importance of preparation as a cornerstone of achieving those goals. “He has shown us a lot of things he expects from us, and preparation is key to achieving the target. I think he’s doing a very good job and that’s very positive,” Diks added.

Versatility and Willingness to Adapt

While Diks has found a comfortable role as a central defender for Borussia Mönchengladbach in the Bundesliga – starting 22 of his 24 appearances this season in that position – he has consistently demonstrated a willingness to play wherever the team needs him. He’s also featured at both right and left back for the German club.

This adaptability is a valuable asset for Herdman, who will be looking for players capable of fulfilling multiple roles as Indonesia faces a tough test against Bulgaria. Bulgaria secured their spot in the final with a dominant 10-2 victory over the Solomon Islands, showcasing their attacking prowess.

Despite Bulgaria’s impressive showing, Diks remains optimistic about Indonesia’s chances, particularly with the backing of the home crowd. He acknowledged the challenge posed by the European side, describing them as “a very good, tactically strong team with good individual quality,” but emphasized Indonesia’s determination to make their home advantage count.

“We are playing at home, and I think it will be very difficult to beat us at home. This is the time to show that this is a big game, the first big challenge, and we are really ready,” Diks stated. He also pointed out that despite some key players potentially being unavailable for Bulgaria, they still possess significant quality.

Currently, Indonesia is ranked lower than Bulgaria in the FIFA rankings (Bulgaria is 87th as of March 27, 2026), but Diks believes that anything is possible in football. He’s focused on harnessing the energy of the home support and delivering a performance that reflects the team’s commitment, and preparation.

The upcoming match represents a significant opportunity for Indonesia to test themselves against a European opponent and demonstrate the progress they’ve made under Herdman’s guidance. Diks’s positive attitude and willingness to embrace any role will be crucial as the team strives for a positive result in front of their passionate fans.

For fans eager to follow the match, kickoff is scheduled for 8:00 PM local time (13:00 UTC) on Monday, March 30th, at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta. Updates and further information will be available through official team channels and major sports news outlets.

Indonesia’s journey under John Herdman is just beginning, and this match against Bulgaria will be a key indicator of their potential for growth and success on the international stage.