Surabaya, Indonesia - Key European-based players are converging in Surabaya as the Indonesian national team prepares for crucial upcoming matches.Defender Jay Idzes has already arrived, confirmed by a social media post on monday, September 1, 2025, showing his arrival in the city. Goalkeeper Emil Audero was reported to be en route by plane, while defender Justin Hubner departed from the airport.
The influx of diaspora talent signals Indonesia’s intensified preparation for both upcoming friendly matches against Taiwan on September 5 and Lebanon on September 9,both to be held at Gelora Bung Tomo stadium in Surabaya,and the demanding fourth round of 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying. All three players recently completed commitments with their respective clubs – Idzes and Audero faced off when Cremonese hosted Sassuolo on August 29, and Hubner played for Fortuna Sittard against NEC Nijmegen on August 31.
PSSI selected Taiwan and Lebanon as practice opponents specifically to simulate the style of play expected from their World Cup qualifying group opponents,Saudi Arabia and Iraq. The team will face Saudi Arabia on October 8 and Iraq on October 11,with all Group B matches taking place in Saudi Arabia. Only the winners of Groups A and B will automatically qualify for the World Cup; the runners-up will advance to a fifth round of qualifying.