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| Indonesia Holds Saudi Arabia to a 1-1 Draw in the Opening Match of World Cup 2026 Qualifiers. |
JEDDAH – The Indonesian national football team successfully earned their first point in the opening match of Group C in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers, after holding Saudi Arabia to a 1-1 draw at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, Jeddah, early Friday morning (September 6, 2024).
Indonesia took the lead in the 19th minute, thanks to a goal from Ragnar Oratmangoen, while Saudi Arabia equalized just before the end of the first half.
From the start of the match, Indonesia showed great enthusiasm with a disciplined style of play. Despite Saudi Arabia being the favorites and dominating possession, they struggled to break through the solid defense of the Garuda squad.
The breakthrough for Indonesia came in the 19th minute, following a quick counter-attack down the right wing, led by Witan Sulaeman.
Witan’s cross was met by Oratmangoen, who fired a powerful left-footed shot to put Indonesia ahead 1-0.
Trailing behind, Saudi Arabia increased the intensity of their attacks. Their persistence paid off in the 45+3 minute when they managed to level the score through a swift counter-attack that ended in a goal against Indonesia’s goalkeeper, Maarten Paes. The first half ended with the teams tied at 1-1.
In the second half, Indonesia worked hard to maintain the balance of play. Maarten Paes, making his debut for the national team, nearly became the scapegoat after committing a blunder that led to a penalty for Saudi Arabia.
However, he redeemed himself with a brilliant save, denying the penalty attempt and keeping the score level.
The match grew increasingly heated as regular time drew to a close. Saudi Arabia’s Feras Al Brikan had a golden opportunity in the 90+3 minute, but once again, Maarten Paes showcased his class with a crucial save, preserving the draw.
At the final whistle, neither side managed to find a winning goal. Indonesia successfully held the strong Saudi Arabian team, securing an important point in their bid to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
Lineups:
Saudi Arabia: Mohammed Al Owais; Sultan Al Ghannam, Ali Lajami, Ali Al Bulayhi, Moteb Alharbi, Hassan Al Tambakti, Musab Aljuwayr, Abdullah Al Khaibari, Mohammed Kanno, Salem Al Dawsari, Abdullah Radif.
Indonesia: Maarten Paes; Rizky Ridho, Jay Idzes, Sandy Walsh, Nathan Tjoe-A-On, Ivar Jenner, Calvin Verdonk; Witan Sulaeman, Rafael Struick, Ragnar Oratmangoen.
With this draw, Indonesia boosts its confidence as they look ahead to the next matches in Group C.
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