HLV Herdman: 'Indonesia didn't perform well in any aspect'

Coach John Herdman openly acknowledged that Indonesia played below their capabilities in the 0-3 loss to Vietnam in Group A of the ASEAN Cup 2026. The Canadian strategist apologized to the supporters and also commended the display of Kim Sang Sik's squad.

Speaking after the match, Coach John Herdman could not hide his disappointment as Indonesia suffered a defeat on home soil.

"I still have a lot of emotions after the game and can't analyze much yet. But overall, we didn't play well. We conceded a goal less than 15 minutes into the match, and it was far too easy. We tried to play attacking football, but we need to transition better and control the ball better," Coach Herdman said.

The Canadian manager also congratulated the Vietnam team for their convincing performance.

"Congratulations to Vietnam. This was a tough match for Indonesia, and we didn't play well, while they played exceptionally. Vietnam has improved a lot since their draw with Singapore. This defeat offers many lessons for us. Although it's not the result we wanted, that's football."

Coach Herdman also apologized to Indonesian fans for the team's performance.

"I want to apologize to the supporters who cheered us until the very end. There is still one more match, and the team will give their best."

According to Coach Herdman, he will take responsibility for this defeat, emphasizing that Indonesia needs to quickly improve both tactically and mentally.

"I take responsibility when the team doesn't play well. We need to transition better and control the game better. Indonesia will improve together and learn from the mistakes."

The 51-year-old strategist also acknowledged that the situation in Group A has become more difficult for Indonesia after the loss to Vietnam.

"We will have to readjust both tactics and mentality after this defeat. The team's position has become more difficult than in the previous round. Singapore is a very cohesive team and also has home advantage. Indonesia is in a must-win situation, but the players are eager to perform and play for the country."

Concluding the press conference, Coach Herdman affirmed that the team has not given up on the goal of advancing far in the ASEAN Cup 2026.

"Mistakes are meant to be learned from. The entire Indonesia team aims to play more than four matches in this tournament."

Center-back Rizky Ridho said: "Congratulations to Vietnam. They played better in this match and put us in a difficult position. There is no other choice for us but to come back stronger. There is still one more match, so there is still a chance. We will rest, regain our spirit, and come back strong."