A New Chapter for Indonesia U-23 on the Road to Asia and the 2028 Olympics

The end of the 2026 AFC U-23 Asian Cup marked another milestone for Asian football, with Japan once again lifting the trophy. For Indonesia U-23, however, the tournament served as a reminder of unfinished business. After reaching the semifinals in 2024, the team failed to qualify in 2026, extending a difficult period that began with a disappointing qualification campaign in 2025.

Rather than dwelling on past setbacks, the focus now shifts toward rebuilding. The next AFC U-23 Asian Cup will take place in 2028, and its importance goes far beyond continental pride. The tournament will double as the Asian qualification pathway for the 2028 Olympic Games, raising the stakes for every participating nation, including Indonesia.

In the 2028 edition, the top three teams will earn automatic tickets to the Olympics, while one losing semifinalist will still have a chance through an intercontinental playoff. For Indonesia, simply reaching the finals will already require a solid qualification campaign scheduled for mid-2027. Although that timeline may seem distant, meaningful preparation needs to begin immediately.

One valuable stepping stone lies in the Asian Games 2026, set to be held in Japan between September and October. Unlike other major tournaments, the Asian Games do not require a qualification phase. Participation depends mainly on registration and financial readiness, making it a realistic and strategic opportunity for Indonesia U-23 to gain high-level match experience.

If managed wisely, the Asian Games could become a crucial part of Indonesia’s long-term Olympic project. Selecting players who will still be age-eligible in 2028, particularly from the current U-20 group, would help ensure continuity. Ultimately, the direction of this journey rests with head coach John Herdman, whose track record in guiding teams to Olympic qualification suggests that Indonesia’s ambitions, while challenging, remain within reach.