The hosts demonstrated exceptional counterattacking prowess in Jakarta's Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, led by Marselino Ferdinan, who netted a brace to ensure Indonesia’s first win in the third round.
The match began with Indonesia launching relentless attacks, putting Saudi Arabia’s defense under immediate pressure. Within the first minute, Ferdinan nearly opened the scoring, striking the post.
Indonesia’s aggressive play soon paid off in the 32nd minute when a swift counterattack allowed Ferdinan to slot a precise shot into the top corner, giving Indonesia a 1-0 lead.
Saudi Arabia struggled to respond, with coach Herve Renard visibly frustrated on the sidelines.
Despite Saudi Arabia’s 74% possession, Indonesia’s defense, backed by the roaring home crowd, held firm. Their counterattacking strategy, bolstered by naturalized players, left Saudi Arabia with much to improve going into the break.
The second half saw Saudi Arabia adjust their tactics in search of an equalizer, but it was Indonesia who struck again. In the 57th minute, another counterattack led to Ferdinan’s second goal, this time with the help of Calvin Verdonk and Ragnar Oratmagoen. Goalkeeper Ahmed Al-Kassar denied his initial attempt, but Ferdinan buried the rebound to double the lead.
Saudi Arabia tried to fight back but remained uninspired in attack. Their best chance came in the 86th minute when Abdullah Radif headed a corner over the bar. Indonesian goalkeeper Maarten Paes and the crossbar denied several late Saudi efforts.
The game took a heated turn in the final minutes. Justin Hubner received a red card in the 89th minute for dissent, leaving Indonesia to defend with 10 men. Tempers flared further in stoppage time as three players received yellow cards following a collision. Despite these challenges, Indonesia held on, securing their 2-0 victory.
The win boosts Indonesia to third place in Group C, revitalizing their campaign in the World Cup qualifiers. For Saudi Arabia, the defeat raises concerns as they continue to underperform against disciplined and aggressive opponents like Indonesia.
The top two teams in each of the three groups will reach the finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico, while the third and fourth have to go through another round of Asian qualifying.
Indonesia will play Australia and Bahrain in their next fixtures in March, while Saudi Arabia meet Japan and China.
