Indonesia Sacks Coach Shin Tae-yong

Indonesia has dismissed South Korean coach Shin Tae-yong as part of its strategy to enhance leadership and improve chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. Football Association chairman Erick Thohir cited communication issues and recent poor performances as key reasons for the decision, despite Shin leading the team into the third round of qualifiers. A new European coach is expected to be introduced on January 11, with aims to implement better strategies and communication with players. Indonesia currently sits third in their qualifying group, just one point behind Australia, with hopes of either securing direct qualification or participating in additional playoff rounds. The nation, passionate about football, last appeared in the World Cup in 1938, and has been striving to return since gaining independence. The next qualifier for Indonesia is a crucial match against Australia in March.