Indonesia vs Japan: High Stakes in World Cup 2026 Qualifier

On Friday, November 15, 2024, the Indonesian national football team is set to face off against Japan in a crucial match for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The game, part of the third round of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) qualifiers, will be held at the Stadion Utama Gelora Bung Karno (SUGBK) in Jakarta, starting at 19:00 WIB (Western Indonesian Time)[3][5].

Indonesia, currently at the bottom of Group C with three points, is under significant pressure to secure points in this match. The team, managed by Shin Tae-yong, is only three points behind Australia, which is in the second position. A win or even a draw against Japan could significantly boost Indonesia’s chances of advancing in the qualifiers[2][3].

Japan, leading Group C with 10 points, is determined to maintain their top position. Coach Hajime Moriyasu acknowledged that the current Indonesian team is much stronger than the one they faced in the 2023 Asian Cup, thanks to the inclusion of several naturalized players. Moriyasu emphasized that Japan will need to be cautious, as Indonesia’s improved squad could pose a significant challenge[3].

The match is expected to be intense, with Indonesia likely to adopt a defensive strategy and look for counter-attacking opportunities. Shin Tae-yong has urged his players to focus on the game and avoid making early mistakes, which could be costly against a strong Japanese side. The coach also emphasized the importance of enjoying the game and giving their best effort, rather than feeling pressured[3].

The game will be broadcast live on RCTI and streamed on Vision+, allowing fans to follow the action closely. The outcome of this match will be pivotal for both teams, as it could either keep Indonesia’s hopes alive or further solidify Japan’s position at the top of the group[3][5][6].