Borneo FC coach Fabio Lefundes believes that one of his young players, Rivaldo Pakpahan, deserves a call-up from John Herdman to play for the Indonesian national team, which will soon compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the end of the month.
When asked by reporters at a press conference after the 2-2 draw against hosts Persija Jakarta in the 24th week of the Super League at the Jakarta International Stadium (JIS), North Jakarta, Tuesday, Lefundes had no hesitation in calling Rivaldo if he were the national team coach.
He even confidently called Rivaldo the best Indonesian player currently in the defensive midfielder or number 6 position.
"Regarding the national team, the national team coach is the one who calls him. But if I were the coach, he would definitely play for my team. I ask you back: tell me one local defensive midfielder who's better than him," said Lefundes, throwing the question back to reporters.
This season, Rivaldo has appeared in 16 of Borneo's 23 matches. The 23-year-old has started every one of those matches.
Lefundes heaped praise on Rivaldo, describing him as the "balance" in Borneo's game this season. He said Rivaldo's presence has enabled his teammates to play well.
