Maarten Paes Sidelined With Hamstring Injury
Maarten Paes, the Indonesian side’s first-choice goalkeeper, suffered a hamstring injury while playing for his club, FC Dallas in Major League Soccer. According to PSSI officials, Paes will need approximately six to eight weeks of recovery before returning to action. As a result, he will not participate in the national team’s training camp or matches against Kuwait and Lebanon during the FIFA Match Day window.
The absence of Paes marks a rare occasion, as he has been a consistent presence in the Garuda’s lineup since his naturalization and integration into the squad.
Ivar Jenner Also Out Due to Injury Setback
Midfielder Ivar Jenner, who plays for FC Utrecht in the Netherlands, is also unavailable for the upcoming fixtures. Jenner sustained an injury during a club training session, and his recovery period is expected to last around seven weeks. Because of this, the national team coaching staff elected not to call him up for the FIFA Match Day matches to avoid aggravating his condition.
Jenner’s absence is particularly impactful considering his regular role in the Indonesian midfield and his contributions in previous international appearances.
Squad Adjustments and Replacements
In response to the absences of Paes and Jenner, the Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI) has made proactive changes to the squad. Three goalkeepers — including Emil Audero, Nadeo Argawinata, and Ernando Ari — were called up to ensure depth in the goalkeeper position.
These adjustments give head coach Patrick Kluivert additional options as the team prepares to face Kuwait and Lebanon during the FIFA Match Day games, but the absence of two influential players remains a challenge.
Looking Ahead: Priorities and Team Preparation
Although the squad will take the field without Paes and Jenner, PSSI officials emphasize that player health is the foremost priority. Ensuring that key talents recover fully before returning is critical in the long term, especially with upcoming qualifiers and international competitions on the horizon.
Indonesia will aim to maintain competitive performance and cohesion during the FIFA Match Day fixtures, even as they navigate through these setbacks.