Jakarta – Eliano Reijnders is focused on earning a starting position with the Indonesia national team after being named to the final squad for the upcoming FIFA Series 2026. The midfielder is determined to make an impact under new head coach John Herdman.
Reijnders secured his place among the 24 players selected for the tournament, successfully navigating a competitive process that began with a provisional squad of 41. Now, the Persib Bandung player isn’t content with simply making the team; he’s aiming for a more significant role.
“From that data, maybe only 23 players can be taken and a starting eleven chosen. So, I have to be able to beat the other 30 players,” Reijnders stated, as quoted by Persib’s official website. His ambition reflects a strong desire to contribute immediately to the national team’s success.
The FIFA Series 2026 will see Indonesia host two matches at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (SUGBK) later this month. The Garuda, as the Indonesian team is known, will face Saint Kitts and Nevis on March 27th, followed by a match against either Bulgaria or the Solomon Islands three days later. These matches represent a crucial opportunity for Indonesia to test its mettle against international competition.
Reijnders expressed confidence in the team’s ability to achieve positive results. “Of course, we want to win both matches, and I think people are thinking the same thing,” he said. The team’s objective is clear: to capitalize on home advantage and secure victories in both fixtures.
This tournament marks the debut of John Herdman as the head coach of the Indonesia national team. Appointed by the PSSI (Football Association of Indonesia) in January 2026, Herdman is tasked with leading the team to new heights. Reijnders acknowledged having had a brief interaction with the new coach. “Yes, I know a little about him. We also had a chat when he (John Herdman) watched a match here (GBLA),” he revealed, referring to the Gelora Bandung Lautan Api stadium.
Reijnders’ inclusion in the squad is a testament to his consistent performances for Persib Bandung. He’s now focused on translating that club form onto the international stage. The FIFA Series 2026 provides a platform for him to showcase his abilities and compete for a regular spot in Herdman’s starting lineup.
The upcoming matches are particularly significant as they offer a first glimpse of Herdman’s tactical approach and player preferences. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching to see how the team adapts to the new coach’s methods. The competition for places within the squad is fierce, and Reijnders understands the challenge ahead.
For Indonesia, the FIFA Series 2026 is more than just a friendly tournament. It’s a chance to build momentum, experiment with different strategies, and prepare for future qualifying campaigns. The matches against Saint Kitts and Nevis and either Bulgaria or the Solomon Islands will provide valuable insights into the team’s strengths and weaknesses.
The pressure is on for all the players to perform, but for Eliano Reijnders, it’s an opportunity to prove his worth and establish himself as a key member of the Indonesia national team. His determination and ambition suggest he’s ready to embrace the challenge and contribute to the team’s success.
The matches at the SUGBK are expected to draw large crowds, with Indonesian fans eager to support their national team under the guidance of a new coach. The atmosphere promises to be electric, providing a fitting backdrop for what is shaping up to be an exciting tournament.
Following the matches against Saint Kitts and Nevis and either Bulgaria or the Solomon Islands, the Indonesia national team will likely begin preparations for upcoming qualifying matches. The results of the FIFA Series 2026 will undoubtedly influence Herdman’s team selection and tactical approach for those crucial fixtures. Stay tuned to Archysport for continued coverage of the Indonesia national team and the FIFA Series 2026.
