Mansion Sports – An intense battle is set to unfold when Indonesia national football team faces Saudi Arabia national football team in the continuation of the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification – AFC.

The highly anticipated match will be held at King Abdullah Sports City on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, with kick-off scheduled for 20:15 local time.

This encounter is more than just another fixture. Both sides are determined to secure the top spot in their group to guarantee an automatic berth at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America. 

Alongside the Iraq national football team, Indonesia and Saudi Arabia are set for a fierce fight in the fourth qualifying round to prove which nation deserves a direct ticket to the world stage.

Indonesia’s Growing Momentum Ahead of a Crucial Match

The Indonesian national team advanced to the fourth round after finishing fourth in Group C with three wins, three draws, and four defeats, collecting a total of 12 points. 

Although they trailed Australia by seven points in the previous phase, the team’s performance under head coach Patrick Kluivert has shown encouraging signs of growth.

Indonesia is now preparing for two decisive fixtures in quick succession: against Saudi Arabia on October 9, followed by Iraq on October 11. 

These matches could be historic — a chance for the Garuda squad to qualify for the World Cup for the very first time.

Adding to their confidence is the remarkable 2-0 victory over Saudi Arabia in November 2024 — their first in the history of the fixture.

Before that, Indonesia had drawn three and lost eleven out of fourteen meetings. Now, unbeaten in their last two encounters with the Green Falcons, the Garuda players enter the pitch with renewed belief and hunger to prove that their previous win was no fluke.

Saudi Arabia’s Experience on the World Stage

Saudi Arabia arrives as a team with extensive international pedigree. Having qualified for the last two World Cups (2018 and 2022), they have a track record that underscores their status as one of Asia’s football powerhouses. Their best result came in 1994, when they reached the Round of 16.

In the previous qualification round, however, the Green Falcons finished third in Group C after recording four draws in ten matches. 

With Japan and Australia taking the top two spots, Hervé Renard and his squad must now battle again for an automatic qualification ticket.

If they finish second in this group, they will have to progress to the fifth round and face another group’s runner-up to secure a place in the inter-confederation playoffs. 

Despite their historical advantage, Saudi Arabia must approach this clash with caution — recent results have shown that Indonesia is no longer an easy opponent.

Predicted Lineups for Indonesia vs Saudi Arabia

Indonesia (3-4-3)

Indonesia is expected to make slight adjustments to its lineup. Striker Ole Romeny will miss the match due to a foot injury, despite being in excellent form with three goals from his last four appearances. His absence opens the door for Ramadhan Sananta to start up front.

Creative forward Egy Maulana Vikri, who has netted nine goals for the national team, is predicted to start, while captain Jay Idzes, currently playing in Italy for US Sassuolo Calcio, will lead the defense alongside Justin Hubner and Rizky Ridho.

On the flanks, Yakob Sayuri and Calvin Verdonk (currently at LOSC Lille) are expected to provide width and pace. 

In midfield, Marc Klok and Joey Pelupessy will anchor the team’s balance between defense and attack.

Predicted Indonesia lineup:

• Goalkeeper: Argawinata
• Defenders: Ridho, Idzes, Hubner
• Midfielders: Sayuri, Haye, Pelupessy, Verdonk
• Forwards: Vikri, Sananta, Kambuaya
• Coach: Patrick Kluivert

Saudi Arabia (4-4-2)

Saudi Arabia, under Hervé Renard, will likely field their strongest lineup with talisman Salem Al-Dawsari as their key attacking weapon. With 25 international goals, Al-Dawsari remains a central figure in the Green Falcons’ game plan.

Up front, the experienced duo Firas Al-Buraikan and Saleh Al-Shehri is expected to spearhead the attack. In goal, Nawaf Al-Aqidi from Al Nassr FC will once again start between the posts.

Defensive responsibilities will rest on Hassan Al-Tambakti, Ali Al-Bulaihi, Sultan Al-Ghannam, and other experienced defenders who must withstand Indonesia’s quick attacking transitions.

Predicted Saudi Arabia lineup:

• Goalkeeper: Al-Aqidi
• Defenders: Al-Amri, Boushal, Al-Tambakti, Al-Harbi
• Midfielders: Al-Dawsari, Kanno, Al-Hassan, Ali
• Forwards: Al-Shehri, Al-Buraikan
• Coach: Hervé Renard

A High-Stakes Clash for Both Nations

This match represents more than a regular qualifier. For Indonesia, victory could pave the way toward a historic World Cup debut, fulfilling a dream that has eluded the nation for decades. 

For Saudi Arabia, the stakes are equally high as they aim to maintain their standing as a traditional powerhouse in Asian football.

With both sides fielding a blend of experienced figures and rising talents, the clash promises high intensity from the opening whistle. 

Tactical execution from Patrick Kluivert and Hervé Renard will play a decisive role in determining the outcome.

Regardless of the final score, this fixture is shaping up to be one of the standout encounters in Asia’s qualification campaign — a must-watch for football fans across the region.