Indonesia’s World Cup Dream Ends After 0-1 Loss to Iraq

Ria Sartika    Minggu, Oktober 12, 2025    Comment   

Indonesia’s World Cup Dream Ends After 0-1 Loss to Iraq

Indonesia’s World Cup Dream Ends After 0-1 Loss to Iraq.

Indonesia’s dream of reaching the 2026 World Cup came to an end after a narrow 0-1 defeat to Iraq on Sunday, October 12, early morning WIB. Head coach Patrick Kluivert couldn’t hide his frustration and was seen hitting the team bench after the final whistle.

Playing at King Abdullah Sport City Stadium in Jeddah, Indonesia actually showed a better performance compared to their opening match against Saudi Arabia. The Garuda squad played aggressively and dominated possession, creating several golden chances. Unfortunately, none of them were converted into goals.

Disaster struck in the 76th minute when Zidane Iqbal broke the deadlock for Iraq. After getting past Calvin Verdonk’s marking outside the penalty area, Iqbal fired a low shot that slipped into the corner of Maarten Paes’ goal, giving Iraq a 1-0 lead.

Falling behind only pushed Indonesia to attack even harder. However, all efforts led by Jay Idzes and his teammates were denied, often disrupted by Iraq’s tight defense and several fouls that broke their rhythm. The score remained 1-0 until the final whistle.

The defeat was clearly a big blow for Patrick Kluivert. After the match, cameras caught him throwing a water bottle toward the bench out of frustration. Some players were visibly emotional, including Thom Haye, who couldn’t hold back tears despite being comforted by team captain Jay Idzes.

This result officially ended Indonesia’s hope of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. The Red-and-White team now sits at the bottom of Group B with zero points after suffering two consecutive defeats. Earlier, Indonesia lost 2-3 to hosts Saudi Arabia in their first match.

Meanwhile, the top of the group is currently shared by Saudi Arabia and Iraq, with Saudi Arabia leading on goal difference. The group winner will be decided when both teams face off on Tuesday, October 14.

Although the World Cup dream has ended, Indonesia’s fighting spirit and improvement on the field deserve appreciation. Their performance showed progress, and with continued support from fans, the Garuda squad can rebuild and aim higher in future competitions.

Indonesia vs Saudi Arabia Live Streaming Link Match Schedule Live Score and World Cup 2026 Qualifiers Results

Redaksi    Rabu, Oktober 08, 2025    Comment   

Indonesia vs Saudi Arabia Live Streaming Link Match Schedule Live Score and World Cup 2026 Qualifiers Results

Indonesia vs Saudi Arabia Live Streaming Link Match Schedule Live Score and World Cup 2026 Qualifiers Results.

The battle in the fourth round of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers (AFC Zone) is set to heat up tonight as Indonesia faces host Saudi Arabia. 

The match will kick off on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 00:15 WIB at King Abdullah Sport City Stadium in Jeddah. This opening clash marks Indonesia’s first test in Group B, which also includes Iraq.

This game is crucial, as only the group winners will qualify directly for the 2026 World Cup, while runners-up must fight again in the fifth round. With such a tight format, every point matters. 

Indonesia heads into this match with strong confidence after solid results in the previous round, including a 2-0 home win over Saudi Arabia in Senayan last year.

However, both teams have changed significantly since their last meeting. Indonesia is now led by Dutch legend Patrick Kluivert, who took over the national team earlier this year. Kluivert has introduced a faster and more modern playing style. 

The squad also features several new names, including Dutch-Indonesian striker Ole Romeny, who returns to action after recovering from injury.

Romeny has been in great form, scoring three goals in his first four appearances for Indonesia. 

“We came to Jeddah with strong confidence. Every player is ready to fight,” said Kluivert during the pre-match press conference. 

He emphasized the importance of discipline and sharpness in taking chances against such a strong opponent.

Saudi Arabia remains a tough rival, boasting a squad filled with players from top clubs in the Saudi Pro League. 

In their last five matches, they recorded two wins, two draws, and one loss. Their latest result was a 1-1 draw against Czechia on September 9. 

Still, Indonesia can draw confidence from their unbeaten streak in their last two meetings with Saudi Arabia (one win, one draw).

This clash is also expected to be a tactical battle. Kluivert’s aggressive pressing style will face off against Saudi Arabia’s patient, possession-based approach. 

If Indonesia can capitalize on quick counterattacks, they might pull off another surprise result in Jeddah.

The Indonesia vs Saudi Arabia match will be available via official live streaming links (to be updated soon). 

Link 1 (coming soon). Link 2 (coming soon).

Beyond just the points, this match represents Indonesia’s dream of reaching the World Cup for the first time. 

A win in the opening game would provide huge momentum ahead of their next match against Iraq on October 14. 

Indonesian fans are expected to rally behind the team, even from thousands of kilometers away, to boost their spirit under the pressure of the home crowd.

Let’s support Garuda Indonesia and watch their fight in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers. All eyes will be on Jeddah tonight as Indonesia continues its journey toward football’s biggest stage.