JAKARTA – A late injury to forward Mauro Zijlstra has thrown a wrench into Indonesia’s plans for Monday’s FIFA Series 2026 final against Bulgaria at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium. The Indonesian national team confirmed Sunday that Zijlstra, who contributed to their semifinal victory over Saint Kitts and Nevis, will be replaced in the squad by Bali United’s Jens Raven.
The news comes as Indonesia prepares to compete for the championship title in this inaugural FIFA Series event, hosted in Jakarta. The tournament, designed to provide increased international match opportunities for national teams, features Bulgaria (UEFA), Solomon Islands (OFC), and Saint Kitts and Nevis (CONCACAF) alongside the host nation.
Raven, 20, now has a chance to earn his first senior cap for Indonesia in a high-stakes match. The PSSI, Indonesia’s football association, announced the change, stating that Raven was called up due to the injury Zijlstra sustained during the 4-0 win against Saint Kitts and Nevis. The injury occurred as a result of a collision during the match.
“Jens Raven is confirmed to be included in the Indonesian national team squad for the continuation of the FIFA Series 2026, replacing Mauro Zijlstra who suffered an injury due to a collision when playing against St Kitts and Nevis,” the PSSI stated on its official website.
Sumardji, Chairman of the National Team (BTN), confirmed the decision made by head coach John Herdman. “Because Jens and Mauro both play the same position as strikers, those were the considerations that Coach John took,” he said, as quoted by ANTARA.
The selection of Raven over other available options, notably Ezra Walian, has sparked some discussion. Walian, who previously received a call-up from Herdman before being cut from the initial squad, has a strong goal-scoring record with Persik Kediri, having netted six goals in the 2025/2926 Super League season. Raven, in contrast, has scored only one goal for Bali United in the same league.
Despite the debate surrounding the selection, Herdman clearly prioritized a like-for-like replacement for Zijlstra, who was instrumental in Indonesia’s semifinal success. Zijlstra found the back of the net in the dominant victory over Saint Kitts and Nevis, contributing to a convincing performance that propelled Indonesia into the final.
The match against Bulgaria represents a significant opportunity for Indonesia to test themselves against European opposition and potentially secure a notable victory on home soil. The FIFA Series 2026 is not only a chance to improve the team’s FIFA ranking but also a valuable experience for Herdman as he begins his tenure as head coach.
Bulgaria advanced to the final after a resounding 10-2 victory over Solomon Islands. That result sets up a compelling clash between two teams in form, with both sides eager to lift the inaugural FIFA Series trophy. The third-place playoff between Solomon Islands and Saint Kitts and Nevis will precede the final, kicking off at 15:30 WIB (08:30 UTC) on Monday at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium.
The final between Indonesia and Bulgaria is scheduled for 20:00 WIB (13:00 UTC) on Monday, March 30, 2026, at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium. Fans are expected to pack the stadium, creating a vibrant atmosphere for what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
This tournament marks the first edition of the FIFA Series to be held in Indonesia, highlighting the country’s growing importance in the international football landscape. The event is part of FIFA’s broader strategy to expand its reach and provide more competitive opportunities for national teams worldwide.
The late change to the squad underscores the unpredictable nature of international football and the importance of squad depth. Raven will be looking to seize his opportunity and create a positive impact for Indonesia in the final.
What’s Next: Indonesia will face Bulgaria in the FIFA Series 2026 final on Monday, March 30, 2026, at 20:00 WIB (13:00 UTC) at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta. The match will be a key test for John Herdman’s side as they aim to win the inaugural tournament.
