Indonesia’s Road to the 2026 World Cup: Can They Overcome Saudi Arabia and Iraq?
Indonesia’s national team faces a challenging path in the fourth round of the 2026 World Cup Asian qualifiers, where they are grouped with regional powerhouses Saudi Arabia and Iraq. With only two matches to play and just the group winner earning direct qualification, Indonesia will need to be highly efficient and tactically sharp. The matches will take place in Saudi Arabia, giving the hosts a home-field advantage, while the Garuda squad faces a high-stakes scenario where every point is crucial.
Despite being grouped with historically strong teams, Indonesia holds a slight edge in market value compared to its opponents, according to Transfermarkt. However, experience and pedigree remain on the side of Saudi Arabia and Iraq. Still, Indonesia’s impressive progress in previous qualification rounds, driven by a mix of local talent and naturalized players, has proven that they can compete. Their cohesion, speed, and fighting spirit could be key assets in this short-format round.
The team’s chances could be impacted by the injury of star striker Ole Romeny, whose presence in the October fixtures remains uncertain. His potential absence puts added pressure on alternative forwards like Rafael Struick, Dimas Drajad, and Ramadhan Sananta. Without a dominant target man, Indonesia will need to rely on collective play and fluid attacking movements to find the net against disciplined defenses.
Public and expert opinion remains divided. While PSSI Chairman Erick Thohir urges unity and continued support, critics like analyst Yusuf Kurniawan view qualification as a steep uphill battle. However, with proper tactical preparation under coach Patrick Kluivert and consistent focus from the players, Indonesia still has a fighting chance to surprise and make history on the road to the 2026 World Cup.
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