Indonesia are preparing to make history at the inaugural women’s FIFA Series. Set to take place in Ratchaburi on 12 and 15 April 2026, the Garuda Pertiwi will test themselves against hosts Thailand, Congo DR and New Caledonia.
At the heart of Indonesia’s attack is Claudia Scheunemann. Still only 16, the FC Utrecht Vrouwen forward is already carrying high expectations. Her journey with the senior national team began in remarkable fashion, making her breakthrough at just 13.
“When I was first called up to the national team at 13, I was very surprised,” she told FIFA. “It was also my first time playing with female players, as I had mostly played with boys before. My most memorable moment was making my full debut and scoring my first goal against Singapore. That was very special.”
Since that debut goal, the goals have continued to flow. Scheunemann is now Indonesia’s all-time leading scorer, a remarkable achievement at such a young age, yet she remains grounded.
“I want to keep improving,” she said. “My goal is to stay as top scorer for as long as possible, until the next generation comes through.”
Scheunemann’s focus has now turned to the FIFA Series, where Indonesia will open their campaign against Congo DR on 12 April at Ratchaburi Stadium.
“This is a very important new challenge for the team,” said Scheunemann. “They are very physical but also have strong technical ability. Because we don’t know each other’s playing styles, the ability to adapt quickly will be key.”
Her ambitions for the tournament are clear: “We want to win both matches and become champions, but learning remains the priority.”
As Indonesia’s leading scorer, expectations have risen, but Scheunemann embraces the challenge. However, she shows maturity beyond her years, drawing inspiration from Indonesia men’s international Beckham Putra.
“Pressure makes me sharper,” she said. “If people doubt me, I listen and then respond on the pitch. Like Beckham Putra, I focus only on the game and don’t think about outside noise.”
Her move to Europe at a young age has played a key role in shaping her development. From the tactical discipline she experienced with Hamburg’s youth teams in Germany to the emphasis on possession and structure at FC Utrecht in the Netherlands, she has continued to evolve.
“Playing in Europe helped me grow in confidence,” said Scheunemann. “The differences between Germany’s physical style and the Netherlands’ structured approach have given me a broader perspective as a forward.”
Scheunemann’s dynamic playing style is influenced by a range of football icons. Alongside USA legend Alex Morgan, she draws inspiration from Lionel Messi and Neymar.
“Alex Morgan is my idol because of her style as a striker,” she said. “Lionel Messi and Neymar too, especially Neymar, because he makes football exciting to watch.”
Closer to home, she sees similarities with Indonesia men’s international Marselino Ferdinan. “Marselino’s confidence playing abroad is inspiring. We both left our families at a young age to pursue our careers at senior level.”
Looking ahead, Scheunemann’s ambitions extend far beyond the FIFA Series. She dreams of helping Indonesia compete on the global stage, with a clear long-term target of qualifying for the FIFA Women’s World Cup™ in 2031.
“One day, I want to stand on the World Cup pitch, sing the national anthem and score goals to make my family and my country proud,” said Scheunemann. “The FIFA Series is our first step in showing what Indonesia can achieve.”
