Indonesia receives bad news from the player currently competing in Ligue 1

Disappointing news has reached Indonesian football fans as left-back Calvin Verdonk has officially confirmed he will miss the crucial match between Indonesia and Saudi Arabia.

Calvin Verdonk revealed he suffered an inner thigh issue during Lille’s away game against AS Roma last weekend. Although the injury is not severe, Lille’s medical team advised a minimum of 4 weeks’ rest for full recovery.

“I got injured while playing against AS Roma. It’s really unfortunate because it means I can’t take the field with the national team,” Verdonk told Bola.com in Jeddah.

Sources within the Indonesian team also confirmed that Lille had requested Verdonk not to join the national squad to avoid worsening his injury. However, the 27-year-old insisted on traveling to Jeddah to support his teammates and show his commitment.

“I really wanted to be there, to play and support the team even if only in spirit. I’m proud to wear the Indonesian jersey,” Verdonk affirmed.

During the initial training sessions in Jeddah, Calvin Verdonk only did light exercises and rehabilitation with the medical staff, without participating in team tactical drills. Previously, he was also absent from Lille’s matchday squad against PSG, indicating his injury hadn’t fully healed.

Coach Patrick Kluivert is reportedly preparing alternative plans. Dean James, a defender in excellent form recently, is likely to start as left-back. Additionally, Pratama Arhan remains a backup option for Kluivert if defensive reinforcement on the flank is needed.

Verdonk’s absence is a significant loss for Indonesia since he is a key figure on the left flank, previously helping the team create breakthroughs in the third qualifying round. His European experience and balanced attacking-defensive play are considered strengths that make Indonesia’s style more stable.

Nevertheless, the team maintains an optimistic spirit ahead of the decisive match. Coach Kluivert emphasized that unity and resilience are more important than relying on any single player.

The game against Saudi Arabia will be a true test for Indonesia, a team aiming to make history in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Fans hope that even without Verdonk, Indonesia can remain tough and achieve a positive result in Jeddah.