Patrick Kluivert has been appointed as the new head coach of Indonesia, succeeding Shin Tae-Yong, amid a pivotal period for the national team. The appointment comes as Indonesia prepares to face Australia in a crucial World Cup qualifier in March. This match is essential for both teams, with Australia needing six points from their upcoming fixtures against Indonesia and China to stay in contention for a top-two finish. Meanwhile, Indonesia is just a point behind the second-placed Socceroos in Group C.
Kluivert's history with Tony Popovic, Australia’s current coach, adds an intriguing subplot. The Dutchman famously scored against Popovic's Crystal Palace while playing for Newcastle United in the 2004-05 Premier League season. Popovic acknowledges the importance of the upcoming encounter with Indonesia and emphasizes the need to maintain elite performance levels.
"We are in a good position and it's up to us to stay there. We need to have that elite focus, elite mentality, and elite performance." – Tony Popovic
Indonesia, under Kluivert's leadership, brings an element of unpredictability. Kluivert's coaching history is limited but noteworthy. He has utilized a back five formation while coaching Curaçao and a back four with Turkey. His assistant, Alex Pastoor, traditionally prefers a back three at clubs he has coached. This tactical flexibility could prove challenging for Popovic as he devises strategies for the Socceroos.
"We'll have a look at his coaching history," – Tony Popovic
Indonesia has recently demonstrated significant promise on the field. The team made its debut appearance in the knockout stages of the AFC Asian Cup and achieved a historic 2-0 victory over Saudi Arabia. These performances indicate that Indonesia should not be underestimated in the upcoming qualifiers.
"But it's one game at a time. I know it's an old cliché but you have to respect the opponent. Indonesia has shown thus far how good they are on their day." – Tony Popovic
The stakes are high for both teams. While Australia focuses on securing crucial points against Indonesia and China, they must also prepare for challenging matches against Japan at home and Saudi Arabia away in June. These fixtures are part of the final slate of qualifiers, and each game carries significant weight.
"Yes, every game is a vital game for the Socceroos," – Tony Popovic
For Indonesia, a third- or fourth-place finish in Group C would allow them to progress to the next stage of qualification. With home games against Bahrain and China on the horizon, Kluivert will be eager to leverage these opportunities to propel Indonesia forward.
Shin Tae-Yong’s departure in early January was fueled by a desire for change, according to Indonesian football chairman Erick Thohir. The appointment of Kluivert signals a new era for Indonesian football, with hopes pinned on his experience, including his time as an assistant coach alongside Ange Postecoglou at Brisbane Roar in 2010.
As Indonesia heads to Sydney for their clash with the Socceroos in March, all eyes will be on Kluivert and his strategic approach. The outcome of this encounter could significantly impact the standing of both teams in the World Cup qualifiers.
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