Indonesia's signal, Vietnam's national team brightens chance to win AFF Cup 2026

The exclusion of AFF Cup 2026 from FIFA's schedule hinders Indonesia's ability to assemble a powerful force, notably its European-based players, which considerably benefits Vietnam's team.

The ASEAN Football Federation Cup (AFF Cup) 2026 will take place from July 24 to August 26 under special circumstances as it is not included in FIFA's official match calendar. This makes it hard for many national teams to summon their strongest squads. Indonesian media recently reported extensively on the risk of their national team weakening significantly right from the group stage.

According to Tvonenew, Indonesia's national team is likely to only use players currently competing in the BRI Super League (Liga 1) domestic championship or those playing football within the Southeast Asian region. The possibility of stars playing in Europe returning to represent the national team is very low, thus creating a crucial turning point for the tournament's landscape.

Currently, Indonesia possesses numerous naturalized players competing in Europe across various positions. Notably, goalkeepers Emil Audero (Cremonese) and Maarten Paes (Ajax), along with defenders such as Kevin Diks, Jay Idzes, Calvin Verdonk, and Elkan Baggott – names who have played key roles recently.

In the midfield and forward lines, the archipelago nation also has notable figures like Joey Pelupessy, Nathan Tjoe-A-On, Ole Romeny, and Ragnar Oratmangoen. These are all players who have contributed to elevating Indonesia's strength in recent periods, especially as the team aims to compete for the championship.

If unable to summon the aforementioned players, Indonesia's strength will undoubtedly be severely impacted. This is a major challenge for their ambition to win the AFF Cup for the first time, especially as they are placed in a group featuring Vietnam, Singapore, Cambodia, and a team from the playoff round.

In that context, Vietnam's team is assessed to have a clear advantage in the race for the top spot in the group. Not only that, even in a scenario where the two teams meet again in the final, Indonesia's absence of European pillars also tilts the balance toward Coach Kim Sang Sik's squad.

Indonesia's difficulties inadvertently open opportunities for competing rivals, particularly Vietnam's national team in its journey to defend the championship title. Squad stability and international match experience could become important pillars for the red-shirted team in this year's tournament.

Regarding preparation plans, Indonesia is scheduled to gather during FIFA Days from June 1 to 9 and play two friendly matches. However, at present, their opponents have not been confirmed as the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) continues to seek suitable "green troops".