Doha. Indonesia has nothing to lose and everything to gain in their upcoming AFC Asian Cup 2024 clash against Japan, kicking off on Wednesday at 18:30 WIB. The Garuda Squad needs to secure a point in their upcoming match if they hope to progress past the group stage. 

The top two teams from each group and four best third-placed teams make the knockouts in Qatar. Palestine beat Hong Kong 3-0 on Tuesday, booking a spot in the last 16 with four points, alongside Syria.

Securing a spot in the next round for Indonesia hinges on a draw against Japan, a formidable task for Team Garuda, given their FIFA ranking of 146th. In contrast, the Blue Samurais hold a much higher rank at 17th.

However, Garuda coach Shin Tae-yong seemed prepared and confident at Tuesday's pre-match press conference. 

"Japan is the top level in the AFC. It will be a very tough match for us but we are eager to show our preparations and determination," he said.

When asked about other pathways to the round of 16, Shin was clear in his coaching approach.

"I would’ve been very happy if we could’ve been in the round of 16 before we play Japan, but I don't even think about it. I just focus on how we are going to play this match against Japan and some of the tactical approaches we will take. I don't care about the result of other games," he said.

Bahrain and Oman both have an opportunity to advance to the next round. Bahrain simply requires a draw against the current leader, Jordan, while Oman must secure a victory against Kyrgyzstan to progress.
 
A historic moment awaits the Garuda Squad. If they secure a victory or draw in their upcoming match against Japan, they will etch their names in history as the first Indonesian team to progress beyond the group stage in an Asian Cup

"A lot of Indonesian people have this dream that it will come for us." Said Garuda right winger Egy Maulana Vikri, "We know that it is not easy but it is not impossible...we have a lot of support behind us".
 
Vikri said how ball control and strategy have been emphasized under Shin's coaching. 

"We need to play simple, we need to seize the momentum. We need to dribble sometimes and make the most of every opportunity," Vikri said. 
 
South Korean coach Shin has never lost to Japan in his coaching career, the last time he came up against Japan was in 2017 when he coached South Korea to a 4-1  victory in the East Asian Football Championship.

"I have lots of experience playing against Japan, as a player and as a coach. Indonesia is weaker than Japan, but still, I will try my best to show a good performance and have a good result. I am excited to be playing against Japan" said the Garuda coach.
 
He said that Southeast Asian football keeps developing, especially in Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia. "These four teams are very competitive. If any other countries ignore Southeast Asian football, it will be a mistake," said Shin. 
 
Japanese defender Takehiro Tomiyasu did not wish to underestimate Indonesia.

"Tomorrow's game will not be an easy match. Indonesia still has everything to fight for and they can certainly qualify for the next round depending on tomorrow's match" said the Samurai Blue player. 
 
Many football fans were shocked at Japan's most recent 2-1 loss to Iraq, experts cite a lack of defensive focus for Japan's downfall. Indonesia will be looking to capitalize on the Samurai Blue's shortfall in defense and loss of confidence at Wednesday’s match. 
 
Players to Watch Out for:
Sandy Walsh
Sandy Walsh was trending on Twitter after his performance against Vietnam. Indonesia fans commended the KV Mechelen right back for his versatility, often seen overlapping the midfield to assist Garuda's attack before returning to his defensive position. This adaptability between front and back lines could greatly benefit Indonesia against Japan
 
Ernando Ari Sutayadi
Ernando Ari Sutayadi has an amazing spell in last week's match. The Persebaya Surabaya goalkeeper fiercely defended Indonesia's goal, spectacularly blocking a free kick in the 90th minute with one hand! This save was later celebrated as one of AFC's 'Magic Moments' of the 2023 Asian Cup so far. This level of tenacity and skill, up until the final moments, will bolster Indonesia's defense against the Samurai Blue. 

Justin Hubner
Justin Hubner proved himself a defensive force against Vietnam, helping secure a clean sheet at last Friday's match. With a heavy offensive expected from Japan, fearless players like Hubner will be crucial in building Garuda's defensive strategy.