KSAsportz report
JEDDAH — In a thrilling encounter, Saudi Arabia emerged victorious against Indonesia with a score of 3-2 in the AFC Asian Qualifiers – Road to 26 playoff clash held at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium on Wednesday night. This match adds to the growing excitement as Saudi Arabia seeks to qualify for their seventh FIFA World Cup.
Indonesia’s Kevin Diks opened the scoring in the 11th minute with a penalty kick, following a decision from referee Ahmad Al Ali after a lengthy VAR review for a handball by Al Hilal defender Hassan Al Tambakhti. This marked a surprising start for the visitors, who were looking to improve their chances with the ongoing qualifiers.
However, Saudi Arabia quickly responded, equalizing just six minutes later through Saleh Abu Al Shamat, who found the net from the edge of the area after an impressive buildup. Statistics indicate that the Green Falcons have successfully scored 90% of their equalizers within the first 15 minutes of conceding in recent matches.
Continuing their momentum, Saudi Arabia piled on the pressure, with Nawaf Bu Washl’s shot being saved by Maarten Paes. Abu Al Shamat then came close again, hitting the crossbar with a powerful strike.
The turning point came in the 36th minute when a foul by Yakob Sayuri on Al Brikan led to another penalty for Saudi Arabia. Al Brikan skillfully converted the spot-kick, putting his team ahead 2-1. He later extended the lead to 3-1 just past the hour mark, seizing the opportunity to score on a rebound after Paes deflected Musab Al Juwayr’s long-range attempt.
Despite Saudi Arabia’s commanding position, Diks netted a second penalty for Indonesia in the 88th minute after Mohammed Kanno received a red card, adding late drama to the match. However, the result was firm in favor of Saudi Arabia, who now sit comfortably in Group B with a record of 3 wins and 1 loss in their qualification campaign.
With this victory, Saudi Arabia is in an increasingly favorable position to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, as they prepare to face Iraq in Jeddah on Tuesday. Meanwhile, Indonesia must secure a win against Australia if they hope to keep their own qualification hopes alive.