As the Indonesian national team intensifies preparations for the 2026 AFF Championship, head coach John Herdman is overseeing a rigorous selection process, balancing a core of established “elite” talent with the need to refine a 26-man roster.
Evaluating the Roster Selection Process
The path to the 2026 AFF Championship squad has entered a critical phase, with John Herdman currently narrowing down his list of players. Reports indicate that the coaching staff has begun the process of trimming the initial pool to a final 26-man roster.
For veteran defenders like Jordi Amat, the upcoming tournament represents a significant milestone. Amat has publicly expressed enthusiasm for his second AFF campaign, highlighting the importance of continuity within the defensive line.
Tactical Preparation and the ‘Elite’ Factor
The inclusion of high-profile, “elite” players—a term often used in local media to describe those competing in top-tier foreign leagues or consistent national team starters—has fueled public discourse regarding Indonesia’s championship potential.
Following a week of intensive training sessions in Bali, Herdman described the current group as a “strong team,” focusing on collective identity rather than individual accolades. The effectiveness of this system will face its first major test in the upcoming matches against regional rivals, including Vietnam. Herdman has characterized these encounters as a “real test of the national team’s ability,” signaling that the primary objective of the current camp is to harden the squad against the high-pressure environments they will encounter during the tournament.
Assessing the Competitive Landscape
Upcoming Milestones
Worth a look
