FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 preparations begin in Indonesia

The FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 is set to begin, with Indonesia serving as the host for Division 1. The tournament, scheduled from September 24 to October 5, 2026, features teams competing in Jakarta and Bandung. Indonesia's national team, led by coach John Herdman, is preparing for Group A matches against Singapore, Malaysia, and Bangladesh at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium.

Vietnam has arrived in Indonesia to prepare for Group B, which includes Thailand, the Philippines, and Pakistan. Vietnam's squad, under coach Kim Sang-sik, aims for the championship after arriving at Soekarno-Hatta International Airport. Meanwhile, Singapore has announced its 23-man roster, featuring returning players like Safuwan Baharudin and winger Faris Ramli.

Financial developments have also emerged, with reports indicating a reduction in the winner's prize pool from $1 million to $650,000 due to challenges in broadcasting rights commercialization. On the pitch, Indonesia's squad has seen the arrival of diaspora players like Calvin Verdonk to bolster their preparations.