With eyes full of spirit, hope, and enthusiasm, the Indonesian national football team prepares to enter the grand stage of the Qatar Asian Cup. After a long wait of 17 years, the Asian Cup becomes the arena to test the strength and determination of Garuda to achieve brilliant success on the international stage.‍

The Epic Journey Towards the Qatar Asian Cup

The journey of the Indonesian national team to the Qatar Asian Cup has not been easy. In the qualification phase, Indonesia had to face strong teams such as Kuwait, Yordania, and China Taipei, with each step filled with twists and challenges. Coaches and players fought together to secure a ticket to Qatar, creating an epic story worthy of remembrance.

In a series of passionate matches, Garuda successfully overcame various obstacles and showcased astonishing abilities. Marc Klok's penalty became a memorable moment for the Indonesian people, serving as a turning point in Garuda's spirit during that match.

17 Years of waiting for the Indonesian National Team

The 17-year wait since Indonesia's last participation in the Asian Cup serves as a source of motivation for the national team. The last time Garuda competed in the Asian Cup was in 2007 when Indonesia hosted the tournament alongside neighboring countries: Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam. Their journey ended at the group stage.

With high expectations from the entire nation, the players are committed to carving out a new history and proving Indonesia's football existence at the Asian level. How they will face the pressure and overcome challenges in Qatar remains a thrilling question mark.

History of the Indonesian National Team in the Asian Cup

Indonesia has participated in the Asian Cup four times, in 1996, 2000, 2004, and 2007. In its inaugural edition in 1996, Indonesia was in Group A with Kuwait, South Korea, and the UEA. Garuda failed to advance from the group stage after securing one draw and suffering two defeats.

In the 2000 edition, Indonesia again failed to progress from the group stage, managing only one draw and two losses. In 2004, Indonesia was placed in Group C with China, Bahrain, and Qatar. Despite winning the opening match against Qatar, Garuda had to settle for defeats in the remaining two matches and failed to advance from the group stage.

In the 2007 edition, Indonesia hosted the tournament alongside Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam. Playing in front of tens of thousands of supporters at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Indonesia successfully silenced Bahrain 2-1. Unfortunately, Garuda had to settle for two 1-2 defeats against Saudi Arabia and a 0-1 loss to South Korea.

Key Message: United, Believing, Working

On the road to the AFC Asian Cup Qatar, the key message is the spirit of unity, self-confidence, and hard work. The Indonesian national team has a golden opportunity to create a new history and elevate the status of football in the homeland. Full support from the community serves as positive energy, driving the players to give their best on the green field.

All eyes are on the thrilling journey of the Indonesian national team in the Qatar Asian Cup. How will Garuda answer the call of history? The answer will be revealed on the field, under the world's spotlight, in Qatar, ready to welcome the biggest football championship in Asia.