Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta.  The Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) Chairman, Erick Thohir planned for new recruits Mees Hilgers and Eliano Reijnders to help secure points in Indonesia’s upcoming away matches against Bahrain and China in mid-October.

The players recently took their oath of allegiance in Brussels, Belgium, on Monday, making them officially eligible to represent Indonesia, as confirmed by FIFA, as reported by antaranews.com..

“Even with their inclusion, we shouldn't expect to be on par with stronger teams like Australia or Japan. FIFA rankings reflect that difference,” said Erick on Thursday (3/10/2024).

As underdogs in Group C of the 2026 World Cup Asian Qualifiers, Indonesia’s goal is to collect 15 points from 10 matches.

Currently, Indonesia sits fourth in the group with two points, following draws against Saudi Arabia (1-1) and Australia (0-0). Bahrain is third with three points, while China is last with zero points after two defeats by Japan and Saudi Arabia.

“We want our team to compete with Asia’s best, making Indonesians proud,” Erick added.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)