The Indonesian national team wrapped up their recent international friendlies with mixed outcomes, a resounding 6-0 win over Chinese Taipei followed by a goalless draw against Lebanon in Surabaya. But beyond the results, these matches offered something far more valuable: insight into Patrick Kluivert’s evolving tactical blueprint.
Since taking charge, the former Barcelona and Netherlands striker has overseen four World Cup qualifying matches, trying to implement bold changes to Indonesia’s playing style. However, a crushing 5-1 defeat to Australia forced a rethink. The Dutchman temporarily reverted to the more familiar 3-4-3 system favoured by predecessor Shin Tae-yong in subsequent matches against China, Bahrain, and Japan.
This month marked a turning point. Rather than sticking with the old, Kluivert used the two friendlies to carve out a new identity, most notably by shifting to a 4-4-2 formation, a clear sign that the Garuda squad is being reshaped in his image.
Tactical overhauls: inverted roles and a false nine
The most striking changes came in player roles. Calvin Verdonk was deployed as an inverted full-back, similar to the Guardiola-style approach that tucks full-backs into midfield. This added an extra layer in build-up play and helped compress the distance between midfield and attack.
Nathan Tjoe-A-On also saw his responsibilities evolve, pushing forward as an aggressive ball-winner rather than sitting deep. His energy disrupted opposition transitions while offering space for Indonesia’s more creative players to express themselves.
The biggest gamble came in the form of Marselino Ferdinan, who replaced striker Mauro Zijlstra as a false nine against Lebanon. While the tactical nuance was clear, the fluid movement, positional interchange, and dynamic press were not.
All the ball, none of the bite
Against Lebanon, Indonesia held a staggering 81% of possession, a remarkable feat and evidence of Kluivert’s vision taking root. However, the dominance failed to translate into goals. Of nine attempts, not a single one hit the target.
This lack of cutting edge highlights an urgent need for improvements in creativity and final-third execution. Controlling the match is a positive step, but without end product, possession becomes meaningless.
Defensive rebuild shows promise
Kluivert is also laying the groundwork for a stronger back line. Kevin Diks, traditionally a right-back, was tested as a centre-half, a continuation of his Bundesliga role with Borussia Monchengladbach.
His partnership with Jay Idzes of Sassuolo could form the backbone of a new-look defence, supported by veterans like Jordi Amat, young talents like Justin Hubner and Mees Hilgers, and domestic standout Rizky Ridho. This blend of European experience and local energy offers Indonesia a platform for defensive stability.
The October challenge: a test of maturity
Next month will be critical. Matches against Saudi Arabia and Iraq, both higher-ranked and stylistically distinct, will offer the clearest test of whether Indonesia’s evolution under Kluivert is truly working.
These opponents will punish lapses, expose tactical indecision, and demand clinical execution. Kluivert must now strike a fine balance between staying true to his footballing philosophy and delivering tangible results.
Building a vision, one step at a time
Despite the challenges, Kluivert appears encouraged by his squad’s progress.
“They were able to adapt very quickly to the new playing style,” he said. “They really understood what I was asking and they executed it fantastically. And I think that’s the most important thing for me as a coach.”
But as promising as the foundations may be, the lack of goals remains a glaring issue. For Indonesia to grow into serious Asian contenders and mount a credible campaign for World Cup 2026 qualification, creativity and sharpness in front of goal must be addressed with urgency.
Kluivert’s project is still in its early days, but it’s clear that Indonesia are no longer just hoping to compete, they’re aiming to control. Now, they must prove they can convert dominance into destiny.
