Indonesian coach Hector Soto announced that the national futsal team is entering a new phase of preparation for the future, aiming to build a strong team capable of competing in upcoming tournaments. This announcement came during a press conference following his training sessions in the capital, Jakarta.
Soto confirmed that the first phase of training will continue until the 2026 Asian Championship, emphasizing the importance of investing in team development throughout this year, leading up to the 2026 Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games (AIMAG). He explained that this championship will serve as a real test for the national team.
Details of the Training Program
Soto stated, "This year, we will organize intensive training camps to build the team, and we will work on involving more players in the national squad in preparation for important competitions in 2027, including the qualifiers for the 2028 AFC Futsal Championship." He also mentioned that the team will play friendly matches in Spain and Brazil, with a confirmed visit to Spain in August, while negotiations for a trip to Brazil in October are ongoing.
He added, "These matches will provide a unique opportunity for our players, as they will head to Europe for the first time to face strong clubs in Spain, which participate in the Champions League and achieve outstanding results in tournaments." He affirmed that this experience will contribute to developing the players' skills and enhancing their expertise.
Background & Context
Historically, futsal in Indonesia has seen significant development in recent years, with the national team achieving notable accomplishments such as winning the 2024 ASEAN Futsal Championship and securing a gold medal at the 2025 SEA Games. These achievements reflect the ongoing efforts to develop the sport in the country.
Futsal is considered one of the popular sports in Indonesia, witnessing an increase in both participants and fans. The Indonesian Football Association aims to promote this sport through long-term strategies aimed at improving performance on the international stage.
Impact & Consequences
Soto's plan to build a strong team is a strategic step towards improving the national team's performance in international tournaments. By focusing on developing young players and involving them in international competitions, Indonesia can enhance its chances of qualifying for global tournaments.
Additionally, the planned friendly matches in Spain and Brazil will allow players to face high-level teams, helping them gain the necessary experience to tackle future challenges. These experiences will contribute to raising the standard of the game in Indonesia and enhancing its status in the Asian sports arena.
Regional Significance
Futsal is also gaining popularity in the Arab world, with many Arab countries striving to develop this sport. Indonesia's experience in building a strong national team can serve as a model for Arab nations looking to enhance their teams' performance in this sport.
Through cooperation and the exchange of experiences among countries, the level of futsal in the Arab region can be enhanced, contributing to increased competitiveness and improving the chances of qualifying for global tournaments.