Naturalized Indonesian stars react as World Cup dream shattered

(Dan Tri) - The Indonesian team's 2026 World Cup dream has officially ended after two defeats against Saudi Arabia and Iraq. Despite the pain, Indonesia's key players still expressed their belief in a bright future.

The Indonesian national team’s 2026 World Cup dream has ended after consecutive defeats against Saudi Arabia and Iraq in the fourth round of Asian qualifiers. However, the key players of Garuda (the nickname of the Indonesian team) still showed resilience, sent words of encouragement to fans and promised a brighter future.

Indonesia played equally well against Iraq but had to accept defeat (Photo: Bola).

Midfielder Joey Pelupessy, who started both games in the fourth qualifying round, posted an emotional message on his personal Instagram. "Unfortunately, the dream is still just a dream. I always learned to work hard, never give up and believe in myself," Pelupessy wrote.

He affirmed that he will continue to make efforts and believe in the development of the Indonesian team: "If we continue to build a team like this, sooner or later positive things will come to us in the future." Pelupessy also did not forget to send his gratitude to the fans: "Thank you very much for the great support. As a team, we will always appreciate that."

Striker Ole Romeny expressed his deep disappointment at the end of his World Cup dream. "It is difficult to describe the pain I feel right now when we all had hopes of achieving our World Cup dream," Romeny shared on Instagram.

He also sent his sincere thanks to all Indonesian fans: "Thank you to all the fans who came to the stadium to cheer for the team, the people watching at home, the children playing on the streets and everyone in Indonesia who supported us."

Despite the disappointing result, the Oxford United striker is still proud of the team: "We did everything we could to represent Indonesia on the biggest stage. However, I am very proud to be part of this team and family."

Defender Calvin Verdonk could not hide his sadness after Indonesia were officially eliminated. "I don't know what to say, it's too painful. We did everything, but it was not enough," Verdonk said.

Diks comforts teammate Haye after Indonesia lost to Iraq (Photo: Bola).

However, he still tries to look forward: "From now on, we will focus on our club career and will participate in the Asian Cup." In the match against Iraq, Verdonk showed impressive form with eight defensive actions, two shot blocks, three clearances and six recoveries, earning a rating of 7.2 according to Fotmob.

Captain Jay Idzes also expressed his regret but did not forget to thank those who have always accompanied the team. "I want to thank everyone who has helped the team, both those who work behind the scenes and those who fight on the field. Thank you to my teammates who have always devoted themselves to their brothers, family and country," Idzes wrote on Instagram.

He especially emphasized the role of the fans: "Of course, thank you to all the fans who have always supported us, whether it was difficult or easy. This journey has been full of ups and downs, but you have always accompanied us every step of the way. For that, I want to express my sincere gratitude. Without you, we would not be able to have today."

Although the 2026 World Cup dream has ended, the fighting spirit and solidarity of Indonesian players is still a great source of motivation for fans of the archipelago to hope for future success.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/the-thao/phan-ung-cua-cac-ngoi-sao-nhap-tich-indonesia-khi-giac-mo-world-cup-tan-vo-20251013034003634.htm