Jeddah is set to roar on Wednesday when Saudi Arabia face off against Indonesia at Alinma Stadium in the AFC fourth Round for 2026 World Cup qualification, with the Green Falcons eyeing redemption after their stunning 2-0 defeat in Jakarta last November in the same qualifications.
This pivotal clash instantly sets a decisive tone for Group B, where both formidable nations, alongside Iraq, earnestly chase the single automatic spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals tournament.
Home Command and Historical Dominance
Saudi Arabia approach this crucial qualification stage with stable, highly organised form, although some observers might label their preceding performances as somewhat unspectacular. They recently secured determined 1-0 victories over China and Bahrain, impressively held continental giants Japan to a solid goalless draw, and suffered only a narrow 1-2 defeat to powerful Australia.
Crucially, the Green Falcons have displayed a truly strong defensive shape, conceding merely three goals across their last five intense qualifying matches, a statistic indicating deep structural resilience. Furthermore, the team historically builds rhythm rapidly when playing at home; early, critical goals consistently set the desired tone, and they very rarely suffer losses in their Jeddah fortress.
The fixture also importantly offers the Green Falcons an immediate chance for sweet revenge after Indonesia delivered a 2-0 defeat back in Jakarta last November, representing one of their few qualifying campaign setbacks.
Historically, Saudi Arabia have thoroughly dominated this matchup, claiming eleven victories from the fourteen previous meetings, providing a powerful psychological edge heading into this key evening.
Indonesia’s Mixed Journey in Qualifications
Indonesia’s recent qualifying run has been unpredictable, as they have shown resilience at home with back-to-back wins over Bahrain and China by the same 1-0 scoreline. Yet on the road, their struggles were exposed in the 6-0 defeat to Japan and a 5-1 loss in Australia.
Patrick Kluivert’s side rely on energy and pressing but often leave spaces behind when facing top Asian opposition, with their victory over Saudi Arabia in the previous campaign remains a morale boost. However, repeating that feat in Jeddah will require flawless organization, as goals have been rare in their wins, suggesting they must take their limited chances efficiently to stay competitive.
Key Players and Predicted XIs
For Saudi Arabia, Salem Al-Dawsari, with 25 international goals, is the star to watch. Firas Al-Buraikan, Saleh Al-Shehri, and goalkeeper Nawaf Al-Aqidi will also likely feature prominently, aiming to boost their nation’s World Cup hopes.
Forward Ramadhan Sananta will likely start for Indonesia, replacing the injured Ole Romeny, who scored three goals in four appearances. The 25-year-old, playing for Oxford United, will be eager to make an impact.
Possible Lineups:
Saudi Arabia: Al-Aqidi; Al-Amri, Boushal, Al-Tambakti, Al-Harbi; Al-Dawsari, Kanno, Al-Hassan, Ali; Al-Shehri, Al-Buraikan
Indonesia: Argawinata; Ridho, Idzes, Hubner; Sayuri, Haye, Pelupessy, Verdonk; Vikri, Sananta, Kambuaya
Ultimately, expect Saudi Arabia to dictate the play from the opening kick-off whistle and successfully avenge last year’s surprising loss, as the Green Falcons’ superior attacking quality should eventually assert itself decisively as the demanding game wears on.
