Key Takeaways:
- Patrick Kluivert was dismissed as Indonesia’s head coach following a 1-0 defeat to Iraq in Jeddah
- Indonesia exited the fourth round of Asian World Cup qualifying after back-to-back losses to Saudi Arabia and Iraq
- Kluivert managed just three wins in eight matches during his nine-month spell after replacing Shin Tae-yong in January
Indonesian Ambitions Undone After Successive Defeats
Indonesia’s quest for a first World Cup appearance since gaining independence in 1945 came to a dramatic halt last week, as the national side suffered successive losses to Saudi Arabia and Iraq. The defeat to Iraq, a narrow 1-0 result in Jeddah on Saturday, ended their historic run in the fourth round of Asian qualifying and eliminated any chance of progressing to the expanded 48-team tournament. The encounter was further marred by post-match disorder, with two Indonesian players sent off after the final whistle amidst escalating tempers.
Setelah bekerja bersama-sama secara intensif selama hampir 12 bulan, PSSI menyampaikan apresiasi setinggi-tingginya kepada Coach Patrick Kluivert dan para stafnya atas dedikasi dan kontribusi mereka bagi sepak bola Indonesia.
Setelah melalui diskusi yang terbuka dan penuh rasa… pic.twitter.com/Y1Y1Q8rDHb
— PSSI (@PSSI) October 16, 2025
Immediate Managerial Changes for Indonesia
In response to the early exit, the Football Association of Indonesia (PSSI) announced the termination of Patrick Kluivert’s contract by mutual agreement, less than nine months after his appointment. The decision, which also saw his coaching staff depart, followed a statement from the PSSI citing a “comprehensive evaluation” of their footballing strategy and an “open, full and respectful discussion” between both parties. Kluivert was initially tasked with guiding Indonesia to World Cup qualification after taking over from Shin Tae-yong, who had been dismissed despite achievements during his tenure.
Kluivert’s Record and Recent Results
The former Barcelona, Ajax, and Netherlands forward, aged 49, took charge in January on a two-year deal. His time in the dugout yielded three victories, one draw, and four defeats from eight fixtures. The defeats included a heavy 5-1 loss to Australia in March and a 6-0 against Japan, in addition to the pivotal recent setbacks against Saudi Arabia and Iraq.
Kluivert’s Managerial and Playing Background
Before leading Indonesia, Kluivert’s senior management experience saw him at the helm of Curacao from 2015 to 2016, achieving six wins from twelve matches, and a short spell with Turkish outfit Adana Demirspor. The Dutchman, widely decorated as a player, lifted two Eredivisie titles and the Champions League with Ajax, before stints at AC Milan, Barcelona, Newcastle United, Valencia, PSV Eindhoven, and Lille. He added a La Liga title and further Eredivisie success to his resume. His post-retirement highlights include serving as Louis van Gaal’s assistant manager for the Netherlands when they finished third at the 2014 World Cup.
Family Connections in Football
Kluivert’s football legacy extends to his family, with three of his sons pursuing professional careers. Notably, Justin Kluivert, 26, who has tallied ten caps for the Netherlands, previously played for Ajax and Roma before joining Premier League side Bournemouth in 2023.
