Indonesia’s national football team has kicked off its training camp at the Bali United Training Center in Sukawati, Gianyar, as preparations ramp up for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifier against China.
A total of 22 players reported for the first day of camp on Monday, with head coach Patrick Kluivert leading the sessions focused on passing drills, finishing, and tactical awareness.
“We had passing practice and some finishing, but the most important thing is that they understand what to do on the field,” said Kluivert during a break at Pantai Purnama, not far from the training ground.
The former Dutch international player noted that the camp is not just about physical readiness but also building chemistry within the squad — a critical aspect, given the players’ varying schedules and club commitments across different countries.
This marks the first time the Garuda squad has convened since their last international fixtures, and Kluivert highlighted that the Bali camp offers a longer preparation window compared to previous matches against Australia and Bahrain.
Physical and Mental Readiness
The camp, scheduled from 26 to 31 May, is designed to fine-tune both the physical condition and mental focus of the squad. Kluivert said he is pleased with the team’s mindset.
“The players are in good mental shape. Everyone wants to play and show their performance in the team,” he said.
As of Monday, around five or six players had yet to join the squad, including Calvin Verdonk, Jay Idzes, Mees Hilgers, and Maarten Paes, who were still en route to Bali.
Scenic Setting and Rainy Kickoff
Kluivert also praised the training facility’s location, highlighting the beachfront setting as a motivational backdrop for the players. Training began around 17.00 WITA under a light drizzle on the 30-hectare grounds.
The players present at the opening session included goalkeepers Ernando Ari and Nadeo Argawinata, as well as key names such as Ole Romeny, Ramadhan Sananta, Stefano Lilipaly, Rafael Struick, Pratama Arhan, Shayne Pattynama, Marcelino Ferdinan, Ricky Kambuaya, Nathan Tjoe-A-On, and Asnawi Mangkualam.
Countdown to China Clash
The training camp serves as a lead-up to Indonesia’s next World Cup qualifying match against China, scheduled for 5 June at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium in Jakarta.
The game will be part of the third round of the Asian zone qualifiers, with Indonesia looking to solidify its footing in the campaign.
