October 8, 2025 | 09:02 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Indonesian football analyst Mohamad Kusnaeni believes the national team has a strong chance of beating Saudi Arabia in the fourth round of the 2026 World Cup Asian Qualifiers.
The match is scheduled at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at 12:15 AM WIB (Western Indonesia Time).
"Technically, the opportunity to defeat Saudi Arabia is quite open. In the last two encounters, Indonesia remained undefeated both at home and away," Kusnaeni said in Jakarta on Wednesday, October 8, 2025.
He views the match as a mental challenge for coach Patrick Kluivert’s squad. The players’ emotional maturity, the coach’s tactical decisions, and the team’s discipline in executing the game plan will be crucial in determining the result.
Kusnaeni considers the current Indonesian squad stronger than in previous encounters. Even without goalkeeper Emil Audero, the team’s depth is expected to match Saudi Arabia’s level of play.
The forward line, bolstered by Miliano Jonathans, the recovery of Ragnar Oratmangoen, and the return of Ole Romeny, adds more attacking firepower.
"The key is to play with maturity. Players must avoid being overly eager, provoked, or selfish in seeking goals individually," he said.
He also highlights the importance of defensive midfielder Joey Pelupessy in controlling the midfield.
"Joey’s role is vital. He must maintain discipline in covering the 30–60 meter area to help Indonesia control the game," Kusnaeni added.
Kusnaeni recommends that Kluivert consider deploying two defensive midfielders, with Joey supported by Nathan Tjoe-A-On or Thom Haye, to contain Saudi Arabia’s aggression. If executed effectively, Indonesia has a strong chance of either winning or at least securing a draw
"The quality of the Indonesian team is sufficient to take points from this match," he concluded.
Editor’s Choice: Indonesia Unveils 23-Man Squad for World Cup Qualifier vs Saudi Arabia
Click here to get the latest news updates from Tempo on Google News
Indonesia Unveils 23-Man Squad for World Cup Qualifier vs Saudi Arabia
24 menit lalu
Forward Ole Romeny, who previously missed out due to injury, has rejoined the Indonesian National Team's main squad.
Prabowo Inaugurates 10 New Indonesian Ambassadors at State Palace
1 jam lalu
President Prabowo inaugurated Indonesian ambassadors and deputy ambassadors to 11 countries, including Malaysia and China.
Indonesia to Inject Around Rp10tn to Regional Development Banks, Finance Minister Says
1 jam lalu
According to Purbaya, the funds allocated to Bank Jakarta and Bank Jatim would not be as large as those placed in the state-owned consortium of banks (himbara).
Indonesia vs. Saudi Arabia: Live Broadcast Schedule for 2026 World Cup Qualifiers Round 4
2 jam lalu
The duel on Thursday morning will be the third encounter between Indonesia and Saudi Arabia in the 2026 World Cup qualification in the last year.
Today's Top 3 News: 2026 World Cup Qualifiers: Indonesia vs. Saudi Arabia Match Prediction
2 jam lalu
Here is the list of the top 3 news on Tempo English today.
Minister Sugiono: Issuing Visas for Israeli Athletes Not Under Indonesian Foreign Ministry's Authority
2 jam lalu
Indonesian Foreign Minister Sugiono responded to the plan by Israeli athletes to participate in the World Gymnastics Championship in Jakarta.
Indonesia Needs Rp13tn Investment for 8% Growth by 2029, Says Minister Rosan
3 jam lalu
The Investment Minister stressed that Indonesia's investment remains the main driver of national economic expansion.
Why Indonesia Should Beware Saudi Arabia's Set Pieces Under Nicolas Jover
5 jam lalu
Saudi Arabia is getting assistance from Nicolas Jover, the set-piece coach of Arsenal, for the World Cup qualification. Indonesia should be cautious.
Indonesia's Head-to-Head Record and Last Five Matches in Saudi Arabia
5 jam lalu
In their last five away matches in Saudi Arabia, the Indonesian national football team has managed one draw and suffered four defeats.
Italy Expects More Protesters Than Fans in World Cup Qualifiers Match Against Israel
8 jam lalu
The Italy vs Israel match is expected to draw more pro-Palestine demonstrators outside the football stadium than football fans.
