Garuda’s Golden Chance: Indonesia Backed to Lift the 2026 AFF Cup

Oktovianus was a key figure in Indonesia’s memorable 2010 AFF Cup campaign, where the team reached the final and finished as runners-up. At just 20 years old, he played an important attacking role alongside well-known names such as Cristian Gonzales and Irfan Bachdim. That experience has given him a valuable perspective on how far the national team has progressed over the years.

Looking at the present squad, he sees a stronger and more balanced team structure. Indonesia has been placed in Group A for the 2026 AFF Cup, where they will face tough competition from Vietnam, Singapore, Cambodia, and the winner of the playoff between Brunei Darussalam and Timor-Leste. Despite the challenges, Oktovianus believes the team is capable of going deep into the tournament.

He also reflected on how the national team has evolved. In 2010, Indonesia relied mostly on local talent, with only one naturalized player in the squad. Today, the addition of diaspora players has brought more depth and quality. However, he emphasized that local players still have an important role and must continue to work hard to seize their opportunities.

With the current blend of domestic and overseas-based talent, optimism is growing around Indonesia’s campaign. Oktovianus believes this could be the moment for the Garuda squad to end its long wait for an AFF Cup crown and deliver a historic achievement for Indonesian football.