Indonesian football has entered a new era under head coach Patrick Kluivert, with excitement and expectation growing among fans as the national team prepares for upcoming international matches. In September 2025, the Garuda squad is set to face Kuwait and Lebanon in two FIFA Matchday friendlies. These games are not merely exhibition matches but also serve as a crucial part of preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Asian Qualifiers fourth round, where Indonesia will face much tougher competition.
The announcement of the official 27-man squad has sparked discussion across the football community. Two key players—Marc Klok and Ragnar Oratmangoen—are making their long-awaited return, adding depth and experience to the team. Meanwhile, the absence of injured stars like Maarten Paes and Ole Romeny poses challenges for Kluivert’s strategy.
This article explores the full squad list, analyzes the significance of the call-ups, profiles the key players returning, and provides insights into Indonesia’s upcoming matches against Kuwait and Lebanon. Additionally, we will look at the ticketing situation, fan expectations, and what these matches mean for the national team’s long-term goals.
Background: Indonesia’s Rise in Asian Football
In the past few years, Indonesia has transformed from a struggling Southeast Asian team into one of the emerging football nations in Asia. Investments in naturalized players, improved infrastructure, and a stronger domestic league have elevated the Garuda squad’s competitiveness.
- 2023–2024 Asian Cup: Indonesia reached the knockout stages, an achievement that reignited passion among fans.
- World Cup Qualifiers: Progress into the later rounds marked a historic step forward.
- Youth Development: Talents like Marselino Ferdinan and Rizky Ridho have emerged as key figures, blending with experienced internationals.
This progress has raised expectations, and every squad announcement now becomes a hot topic of debate and anticipation.
The Official 27-Man Squad
Coach Patrick Kluivert has selected 27 players for the September friendlies. The squad balances naturalized stars with homegrown talent, creating a competitive blend.
Goalkeepers
- Emil Audero (Empoli, Italy)
- Nadeo Argawinata (Bali United)
- Ernando Ari Sutaryadi (Persebaya Surabaya)
Defenders
- Mees Hilgers (Twente, Netherlands)
- Calvin Verdonk (NEC Nijmegen, Netherlands)
- Kevin Diks (Copenhagen, Denmark)
- Sandy Walsh (KV Mechelen, Belgium)
- Yance Sayuri (PSM Makassar)
- Rizky Ridho (Persija Jakarta)
- Justin Hubner (Cerezo Osaka, Japan)
- Jay Idzes (Venezia, Italy)
- Jordi Amat (Johor Darul Ta’zim, Malaysia)
- Dean James (PEC Zwolle, Netherlands)
- Shayne Pattynama (Sivasspor, Turkey)
- Eliano Reijnders (FC Den Bosch, Netherlands)
Midfielders
- Ricky Kambuaya (Dewa United)
- Thom Haye (SC Heerenveen, Netherlands)
- Marselino Ferdinan (KMSK Deinze, Belgium)
- Marc Klok (Persib Bandung)
- Nathan Tjoe-A-On (SC Heerenveen, Netherlands)
Forwards
- Ramadhan Sananta (Persis Solo)
- Yakob Sayuri (PSM Makassar)
- Stefano Lilipaly (Borneo FC)
- Ragnar Oratmangoen (Fortuna Sittard, Netherlands)
- Beckham Putra (Persib Bandung)
Key Comebacks: Marc Klok & Ragnar Oratmangoen
Marc Klok: The Midfield Engine Returns
- Background: Born in the Netherlands, Klok became a naturalized Indonesian player and has been a mainstay in the midfield before his absence. Known for his leadership, composure, and set-piece ability, his return adds stability.
- Why His Return Matters: Indonesia has struggled with controlling midfield tempo in recent matches. Klok’s presence can balance the defensive and attacking transition.
- Fan Expectation: Supporters see him as a crucial piece in connecting the younger talents with experienced players.
Ragnar Oratmangoen: The Dynamic Winger
- Background: Oratmangoen, of Indonesian descent, has been playing in Europe but missed recent matches due to illness.
- Strengths: Versatile attacking winger, quick dribbler, and capable of cutting inside to create goal opportunities.
- Impact on the Squad: His return provides depth on the wings and an attacking option alongside Lilipaly and Yakob Sayuri.
Notable Absences
- Maarten Paes: The FC Dallas goalkeeper has been ruled out due to injury. His absence is a blow, as he has been solid between the posts.
- Ole Romeny: The striker also misses out because of injury, leaving a gap in attacking options.
While replacements have stepped up, these absences highlight Indonesia’s ongoing challenge in maintaining squad depth.
Match Previews
Indonesia vs Kuwait – September 5, 2025
- Venue: Gelora Bung Tomo Stadium, Surabaya
- Preview: Kuwait is known for its physicality and disciplined defense. Indonesia must use speed on the wings and creativity in midfield to break them down.
- Key Battles: Emil Audero vs Kuwaiti strikers; Klok vs Kuwait’s midfield enforcers.
Indonesia vs Lebanon – September 8, 2025
- Venue: Gelora Bung Tomo Stadium, Surabaya
- Preview: Lebanon combines Middle Eastern strength with technical flair. This will test Indonesia’s defensive resilience.
- Key Battles: Jay Idzes vs Lebanon’s attackers; Oratmangoen vs Lebanon’s full-backs.
Both matches will give Kluivert a chance to test tactical flexibility before facing tougher opponents like Saudi Arabia and Iraq in the World Cup qualifiers.
Tactical Analysis: Patrick Kluivert’s Approach
Kluivert has hinted at using a 4-3-3 formation, focusing on possession and wide play.
- Defensive Line: Built around Hubner, Idzes, and Amat, who bring European experience.
- Midfield Trio: Thom Haye as the deep-lying playmaker, Klok for stability, and Marselino for creativity.
- Front Three: Lilipaly or Oratmangoen on the wings, with Sananta as the central striker.
This balance allows Indonesia to press high and transition quickly while maintaining defensive cover.
Fan Anticipation and Ticketing Issues
The announcement of the squad has created a wave of excitement. Gelora Bung Tomo Stadium is expected to be filled with thousands of Garuda supporters.
Ticket Sales
- Platform: Initially available via Livin Mandiri (Aug 19–21), then through KitaGaruda.id starting Aug 22.
- Price Range: IDR 75,000 – 250,000 depending on seating category.
- Warning: PSSI has urged fans to avoid scalpers and only purchase through official channels.
Fan Culture
Indonesian fans are renowned for their passionate support. Chants, tifos, and social media buzz have made every national team match a festival. For many, these September matches are not just about football but also about national pride.
What These Matches Mean for Indonesia’s Future
These two friendlies may seem minor, but they carry significant weight:
- Squad Testing: A chance to integrate Klok and Oratmangoen back into the lineup.
- Tactical Experimentation: Kluivert can fine-tune formations before the World Cup qualifiers.
- Psychological Preparation: Wins against Kuwait and Lebanon would boost morale ahead of facing stronger Group A opponents like Saudi Arabia.
- Public Support: Strong performances will keep fans energized and behind the team.
Conclusion
The announcement of Indonesia’s 27-man squad for the matches against Kuwait and Lebanon has set the stage for two exciting encounters. The comeback of Marc Klok and Ragnar Oratmangoen strengthens the squad, while the injuries to key players highlight ongoing challenges.
As the Garuda prepare for the World Cup qualifiers, these friendlies serve as a crucial test of character, tactics, and unity. For fans, the return of big names and the chance to witness their heroes live in Surabaya is reason enough for celebration.
With careful preparation and unwavering support from the fans, Indonesia is not just preparing for two matches—it is preparing for a new chapter in its footballing journey.