Socceroos coach Graham Arnold is demanding a positive reaction from his players against Indonesia after their horror start to the World Cup qualifiers.

Australia’s attempt to qualify directly for football’s biggest stage in 2026 was halted early last Thursday by a horrific 1-0 home defeat to Bahrain on the Gold Coast.

The Socceroos also came under criticism for their lack of creativity against the world number 80, having 70 percent possession but only having four weak shots on goal.

When asked about Indonesia’s players, Arnold was quick to focus on his charges ahead of Tuesday night’s match at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta.

“We know their strengths, we know their system and their style of play,” he said.

“It’s just about getting our game together and making sure our mentality is good.”

“We obviously didn’t get the right result in the first game, but for me it’s about seeing the players’ reaction in this game.”

Experienced left-back Aziz Behich echoed Arnold’s sentiments, stressing that the players had returned to work with a positive attitude.

“Of course we were all disappointed. We didn’t want to start this phase like this,” he said.

“We know we were below average as a group, there’s no doubt about that, but it all depends on how we react and how we react mentally.”

“Of course we have to put this game behind us, it’s just one game. We still have many games ahead of us, but now we have to focus on this game against Indonesia.

“The group has been great. We’ve had some good training sessions here. The guys have recovered well and it’s more about just being positive, obviously knowing that we can be better and that we will be better.”

“That was the most important message, especially to the younger guys. Everyone is excited and the atmosphere will undoubtedly be great – there is nothing better for a footballer than playing in front of a full stadium.”

It is expected that the crowd in the sold-out stadium, which has a capacity of 78,000, will be extremely provincial.

Arnold pointed out that this could increase the pressure on Indonesia to perform and expected the Socceroos to cope with the pressure.

The Socceroos’ official pre-match training session was cancelled due to heavy rain at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium as organisers sought to preserve the pitch.

Instead, Australia had to return to its training base for its final session.

Kusini Yengi (suspended) will not play, John Iredale has been called into the team at short notice, while midfielder Keanu Baccus is expected to return.

How to watch Socceroos vs Indonesia

Australia will play Indonesia in their World Cup qualifier in Jakarta tonight from 10pm (AEST).

The game will be streamed live on Paramount+ starting at 9:30 p.m.

After one game, Australia is currently in fifth place in its group of six, behind Japan, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia and Indonesia and ahead of China.

AAP