World Cup Qualifiers: Indonesia Stun Saudi Arabia with Historic Win

Indonesia shocked Saudi Arabia with a stunning 2-0 victory in Jakarta, marking a monumental moment in Group C of the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Marselino Ferdinan, the Oxford United midfielder, was the hero of the night, scoring in both halves to seal the win. This victory is Indonesia's first-ever triumph in the third round of World Cup qualification and propels them level on points with Saudi Arabia and China.

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A Night to Remember

The Gelora Bung Karno Stadium erupted when Marselino's clinical finishes gave Indonesia a long-awaited taste of success.

"I am so proud of my team and the country," said goalkeeper Maarten Paes. "Marselino scored two great goals, and we defended so well. This win gives us so much confidence. It is so close in our group."

The match turned feisty late on, with Indonesia reduced to 10 men after Justin Hubner was sent off for an off-the-ball incident. Saudi Arabia came close to a late revival, with Mohamed Kanno rattling the crossbar, but the hosts held firm.

Rising to the Challenge

Indonesia, whose only previous World Cup appearance was in 1938 as the Dutch East Indies, now have six points alongside Saudi Arabia, China, and Australia.

Saudi coach Hervé Renard admitted the challenge ahead: "Indonesia deserved to win. We have four games left, and it will be tough, but it will be tough for everybody."

Elsewhere in Group C

Japan are firmly in control of the group after a 3-1 win over China in Xiamen, putting them 10 points clear at the top with 16 points from six games. Koki Ogawa shone with two headers, while Lin Liangming's goal gave China brief hope before Japan sealed the win.

Australia has a chance to solidify their second-place position with a game in hand against Bahrain.

Uzbekistan’s Progress in Group A

Uzbekistan moved closer to their first-ever World Cup appearance with a 1-0 win over North Korea. Abbosbek Fayzullaev's first-half strike proved decisive, although North Korea missed a late penalty in their quest for a comeback.

Path to the World Cup

The top two teams from each group will qualify directly for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while the third- and fourth-placed teams will move to the next stage of qualification.

With four matches remaining, the battle for qualification intensifies, but for Indonesia, this historic win signals a new era of belief.

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