The 2026 World Cup Qualification represents a crucial milestone for Indonesian supporters, as they have never progressed this far before. This achievement boosts national pride across the country and is captivating to observe. However, supporters are known for displaying behaviours leaning towards hyper-nationalism, intolerance, and cyberbullying. By analysing these behaviours, we explore how supporter identity is formed and how the national image shapes Indonesian football culture. We adopted a Geertzian ethnographic approach, employing participant observation, in-depth interviews, and photo elicitation with 20 informants. Our findings identify three layers of supporters: local, national team, and modern fandom. Stadiums hold symbolic significance and function as ritual spaces on matchdays. Expressions of national loyalty, through chants, choreography, and jerseys, serve as a form of identity. Furthermore, supporters’ roles extend beyond mere spectators, actively fostering a more inclusive supporter culture. Ultimately, national identity constructs a moral narrative and emotional connection within Indonesian football culture. © 2025 Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group.