Indonesia vs Saudi Arabia: World Cup Qualifier Preview

On November 19, 2024, Indonesia will host Saudi Arabia in a significant fixture in the third round of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) World Cup Qualifying. The match, part of Group C, sees Indonesia still in search of their first victory in this stage, while Saudi Arabia aims to break a three-game winless streak.

Indonesia, positioned at the bottom of Group C with three points, has drawn three matches and lost two. As they prepare for Tuesday’s encounter, the team, revitalized by the addition of players of Dutch origin, aspires to maintain hopes for qualifying for their first FIFA World Cup since 1938.

Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, occupies third place in the group. Joint on six points with both Australia and China, they have previously qualified for six World Cup tournaments but have struggled recently, failing to score in their last three matches. This prompted the dismissal of the former manager, with Hervé Renard now returning to the helm.

In their last encounter, Indonesia and Saudi Arabia played to a 1-1 draw. The Indonesian squad enters this match following a 4-0 defeat against Japan, where player Kevin Diks debuted but was substituted early due to injury. Changes are anticipated in the lineup due to his absence and potential strategic adjustments.

Saudi Arabia, still dealing with the absence of talismanic captain Salem Al Dawsari, who missed their last match against Australia, will rely on key attackers to revive their campaign. Renard aims to guide the team back to its winning ways against an Indonesia side yet to secure a victory in the group stage.

Both teams are under pressure to improve their standings, making this clash crucial for their World Cup aspirations. While Saudi Arabia seeks to replicate their past qualifiers’ success, Indonesia is determined to clinch their elusive first win in the series to boost their campaign.