Srikandi Merdeka Cup 2026 begins, Indonesia fields 2 U-16 teams
Garuda Pertiwi opens against Arab Saudi tonight, while Putri Nusantara makes its debut Saturday against Thailand in Kudus.
Srikandi Merdeka Cup 2026 kicked off at Supersoccer Arena in Kudus, Central Java, on 14-23 August, with Indonesia fielding two U-16 girls' teams: Garuda Pertiwi and Putri Nusantara. Garuda Pertiwi, in Group A, opens the tournament Friday at 20.00 WIB against Arab Saudi, then faces Malaysia on 16 August and Hong Kong on 18 August. Putri Nusantara, in Group B, begins Saturday, 15 August at 15.00 WIB against Thailand, before meeting Singapore on 17 August and Yordania on 19 August. The tournament features eight teams from seven countries. Coach Timo Scheunemann said the event is important for giving young players more experience, while Takumi Taniguchi said his team is ready to compete despite limited preparation.