Indonesia officially named Patrick Kluivert as the new head coach of the country's national football team on Sunday

The 48-year-old Dutchman arrived in Indonesia's capital on Saturday evening, where he was greeted by throngs of fans at the airport. Speaking to the media, Kluivert shared his excitement about leading Indonesia and acknowledged the fans' high expectations, as the country seeks to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Newly appointed Indonesia men's national football team head coach, former Dutch football player Patrick Kluivert holds a jersey with his name during a press conference in Jakarta, Indonesia, Jan. 12, 2025. (Xinhua/Agung Kuncahya B.)

Kluivert's first match in charge will be on March 20, when Indonesia faces Australia in Sydney in a World Cup qualifier. With four matches remaining in this phase of qualification, Indonesia ranks third of six teams in Group C, one point behind second-ranked Australia.

"I'm a person who likes pressure," Kluivert said, emphasizing the importance of achieving immediate results by describing the upcoming matches as "four finals" that must be won. "The first part is impact and results," he added.

As a player, Kluivert was renowned as a prolific striker, with successful spells at Ajax and Barcelona. He also played 79 times and scored 40 goals for the Netherlands, for whom he featured at four major tournaments, including the 1998 World Cup, where the team finished in fourth place.

Kluivert will be supported by Dutch assistants Alex Pastoor and Denny Landzaat, as well as two Indonesian coaches. He has signed a contract until 2027, with the target of qualifying Indonesia for the 2026 World Cup. 

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