March 30, 2026 | 08:12 am
Bulgarian national team player Vladimir Nikolov said that having a superior FIFA ranking over Indonesia does not guarantee victory. He expressed his respect for the Garuda team and acknowledged the improving quality of the opposing team in the 2026 FIFA Series.
"No, of course not. We have great respect for the Indonesian team. Currently, every team in the world continues to develop and improve in quality," Nikolov said at a press conference in Central Jakarta on Sunday, March 29, 2026.
According to him, in the final match of the FIFA Series, the Bulgarian players will take the field with full respect for their opponents. "But, at the same time, we have to demonstrate our abilities and quality. Ultimately, we will see who is better on the field," he said.
Currently, Bulgaria is the highest-ranked team in this group, far above the other three. The UEFA representatives are ranked 87th in the world as of March 23. Meanwhile, Indonesia is ranked 121st. The other two, the Solomon Islands, are ranked 152nd and Saint Kitts and Nevis are ranked 154th.
Regarding the match atmosphere, Nikolov was enthusiastic about the 2026 FIFA Series. He cited the warm welcome the Indonesian people have shown to the Bulgarian national team. "The way you welcomed and treated us, and the respect shown to Bulgaria and our team, was truly extraordinary. We feel very appreciated and privileged to be here," he said.
He considered the experience of competing in Indonesia an unforgettable experience. "Not only because I scored three goals, but also because of the wonderful memories I have from all of you," he said. "I can only say, bravo and thank you."
The three-goal scorer against the Solomon Islands at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Senayan, Jakarta, on Friday, March 27, 2026, hopes the Indonesian people will continue to maintain their friendly attitude. "Because for me, this is the most sincere, most special, and most valuable form of humanity," he said.
The Bulgarian national team secured their place in the 2026 FIFA Series final after defeating the Solomon Islands 10-2 in their first match. Meanwhile, the Indonesian national team advanced to the final thanks to a 4-0 victory over Saint Kitts and Nevis.
In this FIFA Series, each team will play two matches. After the first match, the winners advance to the FIFA Series final. On the other hand, the losing teams face off for third place.
Full Schedule for the 2026 FIFA Series in Jakarta
Note: WIB is Western Indonesian Time
Friday, March 27, 2026
3:30 PM WIB: Bulgaria vs. Solomon Islands (10-2)
8:00 PM WIB: Indonesia vs. Saint Kitts and Nevis (4-0)
Monday, March 30, 2026
3:30 PM WIB: Third Place Playoff: Solomon Islands vs. Saint Kitts and Nevis.
8:00 PM WIB: Indonesia vs. Bulgaria
Read: Indonesia Advances to 2026 FIFA Series Finals, Set to Face Bulgaria
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