On the evening of November 19, the Indonesian team created a big surprise when they defeated the Saudi Arabia team 2-0 in the 6th match of Group C of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in Asia. Both of Indonesia's goals were scored by Marselino Ferdinan.
This is also Indonesia's first victory in the 3rd qualifying round. Before that, coach Shin Tae-yong and his team had 3 draws and 2 losses.
The three points helped Indonesia surpass the achievement of the Vietnam national team (4 points in the 3rd qualifying round of the 2022 World Cup), thereby becoming the Southeast Asian team with the highest score in the 3rd qualifying round of the World Cup. Coach Shin Tae-yong and his students can still increase this record when they still have 4 matches left in the 3rd qualifying round of the 2026 World Cup in Asia.
Facing a much higher rated opponent, Saudi Arabia, the Indonesian team was not confused. The counter-attacking defense strategy was implemented reasonably and scientifically by the home team. Despite only controlling the ball 23% throughout the match, the Indonesian team still had 13 shots, and 2 of them were converted into goals by Ferdinan.
The victory over Saudi Arabia also opened up Indonesia's hope of reaching the 2026 World Cup finals. The three points helped Indonesia have 6 points, temporarily ranked 3rd in Group C and are currently equal to the second place in Group (able to qualify for the final round) of Australia.
In the next round, Indonesia will face Australia on March 20, 2025. If they get a good result in this match, the chance to win a ticket to the 2026 World Cup finals for coach Shin Tae-yong and his team will be clearer than ever.
