European-style coach, Indonesia appoints new 'captain' for SEA Games 33

Coach Indra Sjafri has officially been named head coach of Indonesia’s U22 squad for SEA Games 33.

On September 29, the Indonesian Football Association (PSSI) held a press conference announcing that Indra Sjafri will serve as the head coach of Indonesia’s U22 team at SEA Games 33.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Indra Sjafri shared: “Why did I accept the role once again? Because coaching is fundamentally my profession,” the Indonesian strategist began. “The reason is that this is a national duty. If I wanted comfort, I could have stopped at the historic milestone when I helped end a 32-year wait for the gold medal, becoming a hero then. But since this mission was entrusted by the country through PSSI, no matter the consequences, I am ready to dedicate myself.”

Previously, PSSI appointed Dutch coach Gerald Vanenburg to lead the domestic U23 team. However, under his leadership, the U23 Indonesia team performed poorly, losing in the final of the 2025 Southeast Asian U23 Championship and failing to qualify for the 2026 AFC U23 Championship. Meanwhile, Indra Sjafri was the one who brought home the SEA Games 32 gold medal for Indonesian men’s football after a 32-year wait.

“I would like to thank PSSI for trusting me with this responsibility. When it comes to national duty, it must be carried out with the highest sense of responsibility and effort. I hope everyone supports this national cause and that the fans will stand by us. Hopefully, we can replicate the success from two years ago,” the 62-year-old coach affirmed.

Related articles

When and where will the SEA Games take place? Information about the schedule, location, and sports at SEA Games 33. See more