Indonesia coach satisfied with opening match, thanks newly naturalized player

John Herdman expressed satisfaction with Indonesia's 5-1 victory over Cambodia in the AFF Cup 2026 group stage, thanking new naturalized player Mitchell Baker and Chairman Erick Thohir.

Despite the big win, Coach John Herdman affirmed that Indonesia does not want to rest on their laurels. He asked the team to stay focused and take it one game at a time.

Indonesia head coach John Herdman admitted he was pleased with his players' performance in the 5-1 victory over Cambodia in the opening match of Group A of the AFF Cup 2026 at Pakansari Stadium, Bogor, on Monday evening (July 27, 2026).

Indonesia's three goals were scored by Mitchell Baker in the 5th, 14th, and 55th minutes. The other two goals were by Sandy Walsh (23') and Jens Raven (85'). Meanwhile, Cambodia's only goal came from an own goal by Nadeo Argawinata in the 47th minute.

Mr. John Herdman affirmed that Indonesia does not want to become complacent. He asked all players to stay focused and approach each match step by step.

"No, we always say that it's important to focus on one game at a time. Today, the goal was to show our tactical identity and apply what we've been doing in the past three weeks to this match," Herdman said after the game.

Coach John Herdman praised the fighting spirit of the Indonesian players. He noted that team cohesion is an important asset for the team entering the tournament.

"I am satisfied with the players' performance, their effort and attitude. There is a real unity in the team.

"They fight together, play together and seem to be enjoying football. I am really happy with this good start," the 51-year-old coach added.

The English tactician hopes that this spirit of unity will continue to be maintained as Indonesia enters the next matches in Group A of the AFF Cup 2026.

The victory over Cambodia became an unforgettable night for Mitchell Baker. The striker, born in Melbourne, Australia, scored a hat-trick in his debut match for the Indonesian national team.

Herdman said this was a very special debut for Baker. However, he emphasized that this success cannot be separated from the efforts of many people involved in the player's naturalization process.

"I must express my sincerest thanks to Mr. Erick Thohir, Chairman of PSSI, as well as the President of the Republic of Indonesia for their support in bringing Mitchell Baker here, the assistance given to him, and the great efforts to make this happen," he said.

"I mean, this young man just had a dream debut. It was a great team performance, but this is a very special moment for a young player.

"Three goals in his international debut, truly a special moment. But I think there are many people behind the scenes who deserve thanks for making this moment a reality, including Mitchell," Coach Herdman concluded.