The captain of the Indonesian national team sets his sights on winning the Asean Cup: 'We are not joking'

Indonesian national team captain Rizky Ridho has reiterated his commitment to winning the 2026 AFF Cup championship. The 24-year-old defender said the Indonesian squad will approach the competition, scheduled from July to August 2026, with high aspirations.

This statement was made by Ridho after the Indonesian team concluded the June 2026 FIFA Matchday with a perfect record. The archipelago nation secured a 3-0 victory over Oman and defeated Mozambique 1-0.

The positive results from these two friendly matches have become valuable preparation for the Indonesian team. After a short break, Indonesia's focus will shift to preparing for the 2026 AFF Cup.

Ridho emphasized that the goal of winning the title is not just empty words. According to him, all players share a common desire to make Indonesia the top team in Southeast Asia.

"Just as the chairman said here, we also want to win the AFF Cup, so we are not joking when we enter the AFF Cup," Ridho stated, according to the Indonesian national team's YouTube channel.

The Persija Jakarta captain said that every member of the Indonesian national team will fight with all their ability throughout the tournament. He also hopes to receive full support from the fans.

"We hope you will always be behind us," Ridho said.

Ridho expects the supporters to continue placing their trust in the Indonesian team as well as the coaching staff. According to him, that support plays a crucial role in the team's journey in the tournament.

"We will give our best effort, and please trust the head coach and all of us here," Ridho emphasized.

At the 2026 Asean Cup, Indonesia is placed in Group A alongside Vietnam, Singapore, Cambodia, and Timor-Leste. The Indonesian team is predicted to have a good chance of advancing to the semifinals.

The Indonesian team will begin their campaign with a match against Cambodia on July 27, 2026. They will then face Timor-Leste on July 31, Vietnam on August 3, and Singapore on August 7.