Before even starting, Indonesia's new coach is already under pressure.

The official appointment of John Herdman as the head coach of Indonesia's national football team has generated a huge wave of interest throughout the Southeast Asian region.

With a reputation for leading teams in North America and Oceania, Herdman is expected to bring a fresh perspective to Indonesian football. However, experts believe that winning the 2026 AFF Cup will be the most crucial benchmark to truly assess the English coach’s abilities during his initial tenure.

Former Indonesian player Supriyono Prima believes that, given Indonesia has never won the AFF Cup, this tournament holds special significance. "The 2026 ASEAN Football Federation (AFF) Cup is a key intermediate goal. Considering Indonesia has never claimed this title, winning it is essential to prove one’s worth to the public,"the ex-player stated.

The AFF Cup is known as a challenging tournament for new coaches. The dense match schedule, limited preparation time, and fierce competition among regional teams require coaches to adapt quickly, think tactically with flexibility, and possess deep knowledge of Southeast Asian football. This presents a tough challenge for John Herdman, who has not previously worked in this region.

Besides professional demands, pressure from Indonesian media and public opinion is also a significant challenge. An underwhelming result at the AFF Cup could expose Herdman to harsh criticism, despite the long-term plans he and the Indonesian Football Association are pursuing. Conversely, if he leads Indonesia to their first-ever title, Herdman will instantly become a new icon, ushering in a stable and hopeful era for the national team.

Beyond the AFF Cup, Supriyono Prima emphasized that John Herdman is also expected to lay the foundation for further goals. The 2027 Asian Cup is the stage for Indonesia to assert its continental status, where team organization, squad depth, and competitive spirit will be decisive. Meanwhile, at the 2026 Asian Games, the minimum target for Indonesia’s U23 team is to advance beyond the group stage, with ambitions to compete for medals.