Indonesia's Starting XI Against Singapore in ASEAN Cup Opener: Vickery or Baker in Attack?

The Indonesian national team will face Singapore in the opening match of Group A of the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026, held at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (SUGBK) in Jakarta on Friday night, September 25, 2026. This match marks the initial test for the Garuda squad under the guidance of coach John Herdman. Several names are predicted to fill the starting XI, although the final composition awaits official announcement before the game. In the goalkeeper position, Emil Audero is among the most predicted to start. The Rayo Vallecano keeper is expected to be trusted to guard the Garuda goal. The absence of Jay Idzes is one of the main concerns heading into the match. The defender, who also holds the captaincy of the Indonesian national team, is experiencing a thigh issue and is not included in many predicted lineups. In the defensive line, Justin Hubner, Elkan Baggott, and Rizky Ridho have the potential to be chosen if Herdman opts for a three-defender formation. This scheme could allow Kevin Diks and Calvin Verdonk to operate as wing-backs. Both are expected to play crucial roles in supporting attacks while maintaining defensive balance. Meanwhile, Joey Pelupessy and Thom Haye are strong candidates for the midfield. They can contribute to controlling the game's tempo and linking the defense with the attacking sector. For the forward line, Ole Romeny is one of the names predicted to occupy a striker position. Romeny has the potential to be paired with Ragnar Oratmangoen, Luke Vickery, or Mitchell Baker, depending on the scheme chosen by Herdman. Will it be a 3-4-3 or a 4-3-3 formation?