Hubner: Indonesia ready to show who we are

Defender discusses upcoming FIFA Series matches, the team's new era under John Herdman and his bond with the Indonesian fans.

• Justin Hubner speaks exclusively to FIFA
• The 22-year-old continues to dream of playing at the World Cup with Indonesia
• Indonesia are among the hosts of this year’s FIFA Series

Justin Hubner sees the FIFA Series as a key moment for Indonesia to cement their progress and stamp their identity on the international stage.

The 22-year-old defender is part of the squad set to compete in Jakarta, where Indonesia will face Saint Kitts and Nevis at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium on Friday 27 March. Three days later, the Garuda will return to the same venue to take on the winner of the match between Solomon Islands and Bulgaria.

For Hubner, the tournament is more than a series of friendly matches – it is a platform to measure themselves against teams from different confederations.

“This is a great opportunity for us to show how good we are as a team,” he told FIFA. “As a country, it’s important because people can see what we are capable of. Now we have to take advantage of this opportunity.”

“We have to show who we are and what we can do on the pitch. I don’t know much about our first opponent, but I’m not afraid. We want to show our quality and win the game.”

A new era

Indonesia enter the FIFA Series at the beginning of a new chapter under head coach John Herdman, who took charge in January. Hubner revealed that early conversations with the Canadian coach have provided clarity on the team’s direction.

“I spoke with the coach a few months ago. It was a very good conversation. He wants to take us to the next level and help us improve,” said Hubner.

Herdman’s international track record is also a source of optimism.

“I know he did a really good job coaching Canada. I think he can help us develop as individuals and as a team.”

Belief and ambition

Reflecting on the team’s recent journey, Hubner described a positive atmosphere within the squad, despite results not always meeting expectations, including their inability to progress beyond the third round of Asian qualifying for the FIFA World Cup 2026™.

“We didn’t expect some of the results, but the feeling within the team is very good,” he said.

He emphasised that Indonesia still have significant room for improvement and clear long-term ambitions.

“We can still improve a lot. We dream of playing at the World Cup or achieving more at the Asian Cup.”

As a player consistently given playing time, Hubner feels a strong sense of responsibility despite his young age.

“I’m involved in every match and feel responsible for what we have achieved. I may be one of the youngest, but in football, age is just a number. I always give everything and never give up.”

Connection and identity

The defender, who has played for Wolverhampton Wanderers and Cerezo Osaka and now represents Fortuna Sittard in the Netherlands, also spoke about his growing connection with Indonesia, since making his international debut three years ago.

“I feel a stronger connection with Indonesia. Every time I come here, it truly feels like home,” said Hubner.

He also highlighted the unwavering support of Indonesian fans. “People in Indonesia have big hearts and will always support us no matter what happens.”

Hubner pointed to his family roots in Makassar, inherited through his father, as a source of strength shaping his mentality on the pitch.

“Makassar is a place where people are strong and resilient, and my family comes from there. So I can’t afford to let anyone down by playing badly.”