Jakarta – Three players from Persib Bandung have received call-ups to the Indonesian national team as preparations intensify for the upcoming FIFA Series. The selections, announced earlier this week, have drawn positive reactions from Persib’s coach, Bojan Hodak, who believes the players’ recent performances on the Asian stage were instrumental in their inclusion. The FIFA Series, scheduled to take place between March 27th and 30th, 2026, at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium in Jakarta, will see Indonesia face Bulgaria, Solomon Islands, and Saint Kitts and Nevis.
The Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) initially announced a preliminary squad of 41 players on Monday, March 9th, 2026, with Marc Klok, Eliano Reijnders, and Beckham Putra representing Persib Bandung. This selection underscores the growing recognition of Indonesian football talent, particularly those competing at a higher level within the Asian Football Confederation (AFC).
Persib Bandung’s Players Earn National Recognition
The call-ups are particularly noteworthy given Persib Bandung’s participation in the AFC Champions League Two this season. Coach Bojan Hodak emphasized that the national team’s scouting staff had been closely monitoring players involved in high-level Asian competitions, giving Persib’s representatives a distinct advantage. According to Suara.com, this increased exposure played a significant role in the players being considered for the national squad.
“I think all three players deserve the call-up,” Hodak stated following a match against Persik Kediri on March 9th, 2026. “The Indonesian national team’s coaching staff has been monitoring our players, especially during the AFC matches, which are international competitions and quite challenging. So, I think they all deserve it. Marc had a recent injury, but he’s back and ready to play. Beckham and Eliano have also been playing incredibly well with the team, so they deserve the call-up.”
The inclusion of these players reflects a broader strategy by new national team coach John Herdman to assess a wider pool of talent ahead of crucial FIFA Series matches. Herdman announced the 41-man squad as a preliminary list, with further selections to be made following an intensive training camp in Jakarta.
John Herdman’s Squad Selection and Focus on AFC Champions League Exposure
Herdman’s decision to prioritize players with experience in the AFC Champions League Two highlights a shift in focus towards recognizing talent competing at a continental level. This approach suggests a desire to build a national team capable of competing effectively against stronger opponents. The AFC Champions League Two provides a platform for Indonesian players to showcase their skills against some of the best teams in Asia, offering valuable experience and exposure.
The selection process wasn’t without its surprises. TV One News reported that the omission of Persib Bandung’s goalkeeper from the initial squad sparked some surprise among fans on social media. However, the focus remains on evaluating the 41 players currently in contention for a place in the final squad.
Player Profiles: Klok, Reijnders, and Putra
Marc Klok is a seasoned midfielder who brings experience and stability to the Indonesian national team. His ability to control the tempo of the game and provide accurate passes makes him a valuable asset. Klok’s recent recovery from injury will be closely monitored by the national team’s medical staff.
Eliano Reijnders, described by Okezone as a versatile player, can play in multiple positions, offering tactical flexibility to the national team. His ability to contribute both defensively and offensively makes him a valuable asset for Herdman.
Beckham Putra is a promising young talent who has been consistently performing well for Persib Bandung. His dynamic play and attacking prowess have earned him recognition from the national team coaching staff. He has demonstrated a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn, making him a valuable addition to the squad.
Bojan Hodak’s Perspective on the Call-Ups
Hodak’s positive reaction to the call-ups underscores the strong relationship between Persib Bandung and the Indonesian national team. He believes that the players are well-prepared for the challenges ahead and are eager to represent their country on the international stage. Hodak’s support for his players is a testament to their dedication and hard work.
“They’ve all been monitored for several months, especially during the AFC games, which are tough international matches,” Hodak explained. “So, I think they all deserve it. They’re all fit and ready to play.”
The upcoming FIFA Series presents a crucial opportunity for Indonesia to test its strength against international opponents. The matches against Bulgaria, Solomon Islands, and Saint Kitts and Nevis will provide valuable insights into the team’s capabilities and areas for improvement. The performance of the Persib Bandung players will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike.
The Indonesian national team’s preparations for the FIFA Series are well underway, with the selected players set to begin training in Jakarta. The coaching staff will be looking to build a cohesive and competitive squad capable of achieving success on the international stage. The inclusion of players from Persib Bandung, with their recent experience in the AFC Champions League Two, is a positive step towards achieving this goal.
The FIFA Series matches are scheduled to take place from March 27th to 30th, 2026, at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium in Jakarta. Fans are encouraged to support the national team and witness the exciting action firsthand.
As the Indonesian national team prepares for the FIFA Series, the focus remains on building a strong and competitive squad. The call-ups of Marc Klok, Eliano Reijnders, and Beckham Putra from Persib Bandung represent a positive step towards achieving this goal. The players’ recent performances in the AFC Champions League Two have earned them recognition, and they are eager to represent their country on the international stage. The upcoming matches will provide a valuable opportunity for Indonesia to test its strength against international opponents and showcase its growing football talent.
The next key date for Indonesian football fans will be the announcement of the final squad for the FIFA Series, expected shortly before the tournament begins. Stay tuned for further updates on the team’s preparations and match schedules.
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