Saudi Arabia One Step Closer to 2026 World Cup After Thrilling Win Over Indonesia
Saudi Arabia came from behind to defeat Indonesia 3-2 on Wednesday, taking a major step toward qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. A win against Iraq in their next match would seal the Green Falcons’ seventh World Cup appearance, and even a draw could be enough to book their ticket to North America.
Indonesia Takes Early Lead
The match at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium began tensely, with Indonesia shocking the home crowd by scoring in the 11th minute. After a handball was called against Hassan Tambakti in the box, Kevin Diks converted the penalty into the bottom corner, despite goalkeeper Nawaf Al-Aqidi’s best efforts.
Saudi Arabia Responds in Style
Just six minutes later, Saudi Arabia equalized beautifully. Musab Al-Juwayr flicked a pass to Saleh Abu Al-Shamat, who turned past a defender and fired a left-footed shot into the bottom corner, leaving the visiting goalkeeper no chance.
Al-Buraikan Puts Green Falcons Ahead
Ten minutes before halftime, a penalty was awarded to the hosts. Firas Al-Buraikan calmly converted to give Saudi Arabia the lead, demonstrating composure reminiscent of his previous spot-kick success earlier in the qualifiers.
Late Drama Secures Victory
The third goal came just after the hour mark. Al-Juwayr’s long-range effort was parried by Paes, but Al-Buraikan was quickest to react, netting the rebound and putting the game beyond doubt—temporarily. Indonesia earned a late penalty in the 89th minute, and Diks scored again to make it 3-2. Despite a red card for substitute Mohammed Kanno in stoppage time, Saudi Arabia held on for a hard-fought victory.
Group B Outlook
Group B action continues Saturday with Iraq vs. Indonesia, followed by Iraq vs. Saudi Arabia on Tuesday. Only the group winner secures direct qualification to the 2026 World Cup, while the runner-up faces a two-legged play-off against the Group A runner-up. Group A features Qatar, Oman, and the UAE, who played to a goalless draw on Wednesday.
Saudi Arabia’s Path Forward
With momentum on their side, Herve Renard’s men are poised to take one more step toward returning to football’s biggest stage, keeping fans hopeful for a triumphant qualification campaign.
