Elkan Baggott & Pemain Timnas Indonesia untuk Piala AFF 2026: Daftar & Penampilan Terkini

Jakarta – Following the conclusion of the recent FIFA Series 2026, Indonesia national team head coach John Herdman is set to announce his squad for the upcoming AFF Championship 2026. Speculation is mounting regarding potential omissions, with reports suggesting a shift in focus towards domestically-based players. The question on many fans’ minds: will players currently plying their trade in Europe be included in Herdman’s plans?

Herdman, who took the helm of the Indonesian national team earlier this year, used the FIFA Series matches against Saint Kitts and Nevis and Bulgaria as an opportunity to assess both established and emerging talent. The matches, held at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta from March 27-30, 2026, provided valuable insights into player form and tactical suitability. Indonesia secured a 4-0 victory over Saint Kitts and Nevis before falling to Bulgaria in the final.

Elkan Baggott’s Return and Future with the National Team

One notable inclusion in the recent squad was Elkan Baggott, marking his return to the national team after a two-year absence. Baggott last represented Indonesia at the 2023 Asian Cup. His comeback generated significant discussion, particularly given his limited playing time at the club level. Herdman, however, highlighted Baggott’s physical attributes as a key reason for his call-up. “First, Elkan has a 7-foot frame (almost 2 meters), I’m not joking,” Herdman stated, as reported by Bola.net.

Baggott featured in both matches of the FIFA Series. He started against Saint Kitts and Nevis, partnering with Jay Idzes and Rizky Ridho in defense, delivering a solid performance despite occasionally being beaten by opposing attackers. He played 65 minutes in that match before being substituted by Justin Hubner. Against Bulgaria, Baggott was introduced from the bench. Reports from DetikSport indicate that whereas his height proved advantageous in aerial duels, he sometimes struggled with pace against quicker opponents. Notably, Baggott’s minutes played in these two matches exceeded his total playing time for Ipswich Town over the past season.

Herdman has publicly praised Baggott, even labeling him a “player of the future” for the Indonesian national team, according to Suara.com. This suggests a clear intention to integrate the young defender into his long-term plans.

Potential Squad Changes for the AFF Championship

While the full squad list for the AFF Championship 2026 is yet to be released, reports suggest Herdman is leaning towards a squad primarily composed of players based in the Indonesian Liga 1. This potential shift in strategy could see several European-based players left out of the final selection. The reasoning behind this approach is likely multifaceted, encompassing factors such as consistent match fitness, familiarity with the local footballing environment, and the logistical challenges associated with international travel.

The focus on domestic players aligns with Herdman’s stated ambition to build a cohesive and competitive team capable of qualifying for the 2030 FIFA World Cup. As bola.com reported, Herdman has emphasized that qualifying for the 2030 World Cup is the primary target for the national team.

The decision to prioritize domestic-based players isn’t necessarily a reflection of the quality of Indonesian players abroad, but rather a strategic move to foster team cohesion and ensure players are in peak condition for crucial matches. It also allows Herdman to build a consistent playing style and tactical approach that is readily adaptable to the demands of international competition.

What’s Next for the Indonesian National Team?

The official squad announcement for the AFF Championship 2026 is expected in the coming weeks. Fans will be eagerly awaiting the list to see which players have earned a place in Herdman’s plans. The AFF Championship, a highly anticipated tournament in Southeast Asia, will provide a significant test for the Indonesian national team as they strive to compete for regional glory. The tournament is scheduled to begin in December 2026.

Beyond the AFF Championship, the national team will continue its preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Herdman will undoubtedly use the upcoming matches to experiment with different formations and player combinations, aiming to build a squad capable of challenging the region’s best teams. The team’s performance in these matches will be crucial in shaping their prospects for World Cup qualification.

Stay tuned to Archysport for further updates on the Indonesian national team, including the official squad announcement and coverage of their upcoming matches. We will continue to provide in-depth analysis and insights into the team’s progress as they embark on their journey towards the 2030 FIFA World Cup.