General Secretary Yunus Nusi, representing the Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI), issued an apology to fans after the national team's failure to advance to the ASEAN Cup 2026 semifinals.

"I personally witnessed the players compete at Jalan Besar Stadium, Singapore", Yunus Nusi stated in an announcement on 9/8. "The team could not advance after the draw with Singapore. Regarding the ASEAN Cup results, PSSI apologizes to all Indonesian football fans for not delivering the expected outcome".

PSSI general secretary Yunus Nusi. *Photo: Viva.*

Indonesia finished the group stage with 7 points, placing third in Group A behind Vietnam and Singapore. The team secured wins against Cambodia (5-1) and Timor Leste (3-0), suffered a 0-3 loss to Vietnam, and then drew 1-1 with Singapore in their final match on 7/8. This outcome at Jalan Besar marked Indonesia's second consecutive elimination from the ASEAN Cup group stage, following the 2024 tournament.

This defeat came as a surprise, as Indonesia entered the tournament with high expectations. It was coach John Herdman's first ASEAN Cup, and PSSI had invested significantly in the national team, featuring several naturalized players like Thom Haye, Eliano Reijnders, and Ragnar Oratmangoen.

According to Yunus, evaluations are a regular process following every tournament, even when the national team performs well. Discussions involve Erick Thohir, the National Team Board (BTN), the Executive Committee (Exco), and the coaching staff.

Yunus confirmed his participation in these discussions and evaluations. Consequently, PSSI will review the ASEAN Cup 2026 failure as part of the preparation for Indonesian football's future objectives.

Nguyen Dinh Bac was fouled during Vietnam's 3-0 victory over Indonesia in the fourth match of Group A, ASEAN Cup 2026, at Pakansari Stadium, Bogor, Indonesia, on 3/8. *Photo: Duc Dong.*

Beyond the commitment to evaluation, PSSI also defended the players and coaches from fan pressure. "The national team fought and deserves recognition", he stated. "You can criticize PSSI or the PSSI president; we accept that. However, the most important thing is not to insult the players and coaches. They are our future assets".

The ASEAN Cup 2026 marked Herdman's first regional tournament coaching Indonesia. The Canadian coach had outlined long-term objectives for the national team, prioritizing World Cup qualifiers. However, Indonesia's early elimination has prompted PSSI to re-evaluate the team's performance in their inaugural tournament under Herdman.

PSSI has not yet announced specific changes following the evaluation. Yunus affirmed that the failure will not be overlooked, and the federation will discuss solutions for future tournaments.

Meanwhile, PSSI urged fans to continue supporting the current generation of players. Despite not meeting their ASEAN Cup objectives, these players can still play a role in the future of the Indonesian national team. "There is still great hope that these players will help Indonesian football achieve better results", he added.

By Hoang An.