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| Maarten Paes is ready to play for Indonesia against Bahrain in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. |
PEWARTA.CO.ID - Indonesia's national team head coach, Shin Tae-yong, has shared positive news regarding Maarten Paes' participation in the upcoming 2026 World Cup Qualifiers.
The goalkeeper, who recently suffered a minor injury, has been confirmed fit to play for the Garuda Squad, and the injury will not prevent him from taking part in the match.
Shin Tae-yong conveyed this news shortly before the team departed for Bahrain on Saturday, October 5, 2024.
In his statement, Shin clarified that Paes had only sustained a minor injury, which, according to the medical team, would not affect his performance on the field. This update comes as a relief for Indonesian football fans who have been eagerly awaiting the goalkeeper’s return to action.
“There is no problem with the players. Our physio team has already conducted therapy, and he is ready to be fielded,” said Shin Tae-yong.
Shin emphasized that the decision to include Paes in the squad was based on the results of the medical assessment. He explained that if Paes' injury had been more serious, the goalkeeper would have been excluded from the team. However, since the injury was minor, Paes has been cleared to join the squad.
“If it were a major injury, he wouldn’t have been taken and would have been removed from the squad. But this isn’t a serious injury, and after being examined by our physio team, he is still being brought along,” Shin Tae-yong further explained.
With Maarten Paes confirmed to play, Shin Tae-yong is optimistic about the upcoming match in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. Paes' presence in goal is expected to strengthen Indonesia’s defense as they prepare to face tough opponents.
Player fitness remains a priority for the South Korean coach. Apart from Maarten Paes, all other players are in top condition, and Shin Tae-yong hopes they will deliver their best performances in the upcoming match.
The match in Bahrain will serve as a significant test for the Garuda Squad as they seek to improve their standing in the current World Cup Qualifiers group.
