Indonesia team creates surprise in the opening match of the 3rd qualifying round of the 2026 World Cup

Visiting Saudi Arabia , the Indonesian team faced many difficult challenges. Coach Shin Tae-yong and his team “knew themselves and their opponents”, they took to the field with a 5-4-1 formation and used 3 strong central defenders.

In the first half of the first half, the Indonesian team played no worse than their opponents. A big surprise happened in the 19th minute when the team from the archipelago had a very good coordination. After a few good passes, the opportunity came to Oratmangoen and he took a tricky shot, the ball lightly touched Sandy Walsh and flew straight into the Saudi Arabia net, leaving Al Owais astonished. This goal left the Saudi Arabia team stunned.

The West Asian representative was doused with cold water but did not have an effective response. Outside the field, coach Roberto Mancini appeared dissatisfied.

His players did not create enough pressure. But luckily for this team, they got what they needed, also from a lucky situation.

In the 45+2 minute, Musab appeared in front of the penalty area, he fired a powerful shot that hit Nathan Tjoe A-on of Indonesia into the net. The goal came to the home team and the first half ended in a draw.

In the second half, the Saudi Arabia team started to regain their confidence. At this point, the Indonesian team took the initiative to slow down and defend deep.

But it must be said that this was a match where Roberto Mancini and his team were unlucky. In the 76th minute, Al Harbi's header unfortunately hit the post.

3 minutes later, Indonesian goalkeeper Paes made a mistake when he fouled Firas. However, veteran striker Salem Al-Dawsari's shot was too weak and Paes made an excellent save.

The Indonesian team also had the right to regret with at least 2 quality counter-attacks. Meanwhile, Paes had another good save.

The match ended in a 1-1 draw. This score was enough to give Indonesia joy on the opening day.