On November 21, in a recently concluded World Cup Asian Qualifier match, Indonesia defeated Saudi Arabia 2-0 to secure their first victory. Today, Indonesian assistant coach Arianto addressed the rumors of discord between the head coach and the players.
In the third round of the World Cup Asian Qualifiers, Indonesia drew 2-2 with Bahrain. It was reported that after the match, tensions arose between head coach Shin Tae-yong and the players, with rumors suggesting a significant rift.
Arianto stated, “Regarding the issue of discord, as a member of the Indonesian national team, I can confidently say that nothing like that has happened. I have seen smooth communication between head coach Shin Tae-yong and the players. Minor frictions between players and coaches are very normal. Before the match against Saudi Arabia, the players held a spontaneous meeting, which only included the players and no one else. I believe they were definitely encouraging each other.”
“This is what I have observed; the players are very united. Captain Ezra Walian organized this meeting, emphasizing that the players need to recognize that they are playing for the national team, not their clubs, and everyone needs to put aside their egos.”
