Head of the National Team Agency, Sumardji, spoke to the press at Madya Stadium, Senayan, Jakarta, on Monday (1 June 2026).

The Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI), through the Chairman of the National Team Agency, Sumardji, revealed that the Indonesia National Football Team has been set the target of winning the 2026 AFF Cup.

Sumardji emphasised that the target of becoming champions this year is not something to be taken lightly.

"Remember, our goal is serious — we truly aim to win this AFF Championship at the senior level. We have been longing for this," said Sumardji on Monday (1 June 2026) in Jakarta.

The Indonesia National Team is determined not to repeat the disappointment from the previous edition.

In the 2024 AFF Cup, the Garuda squad, which featured many young players, failed to meet public expectations.

The team only managed to finish third in Group B, falling short of qualifying for the semifinals.

To achieve their championship ambitions, PSSI has been making thorough preparations.

Head coach John Herdman will have a squad filled with talented players as a strong foundation to pursue the title.

In addition, there are now several diaspora players who have joined teams in the Super League.

Among these players are Thom Haye, Eliano Reijnders, Jordi Amat, and Ivar Jenner.

Sumardji also mentioned that a long-term training camp has been arranged after the FIFA Matchday period.

Bali is rumoured to be one of the destinations being considered for John Herdman’s team training camp.

"Yes, the schedule has been received, and we have reviewed and discussed it thoroughly," said Sumardji.

"With the long break we have, since the domestic league will only start in September, we must take advantage of the gap — between July and August when the AFF Cup takes place — to prepare the team as best as we can," he added.

All these efforts aim to rebuild public trust in the Indonesia National Team, especially after PSSI’s failure to help the team qualify for the 2026 World Cup.

The national team now seeks to regain respect and trust at the international level.

Therefore, winning the AFF Cup is seen as a crucial step for PSSI to restore faith among supporters.

"Honestly, everyone at PSSI deeply longs for that moment. We know that after failing to qualify for the World Cup, public trust in the national team declined," said Sumardji.

"That’s the reality. So, we want to prove that our players truly deserve appreciation and recognition, just like before."

"We want fans who cheer passionately, who come to Gelora Bung Karno Stadium and even follow the team abroad."

"We really miss that atmosphere. Step by step, we will prove ourselves, motivate the players, and give our best so that the Indonesia National Team can once again earn the trust of all fans and the Indonesian people," he concluded.