Marselino Ferdinan’s two goals ensured Indonesia’s 2-0 victory over Saudi Arabia in Group C of the 2026 World Cup Qualification at the GBK Main Stadium.
This victory opened up Indonesia’s opportunity to qualify for the 2026 World Cup. An additional three points made Shin Tae Yong’s team move up to third place in Group C standings with a score of six points.
Indonesia vs Saudi Arabia first met on September 30, 1981 in the Lion City Cup. At that time Indonesia lost 1-3 to Saudi Arabia. Since then the Indonesian National Team has always failed to win against Saudi Arabia, before the match at GBK on Tuesday (19/11) evening ended the curse.
Apart from that, the Indonesian National Team also won their first victory in the third round of the 2026 World Cup Qualifications in the Asian zone. In the previous five matches, Indonesia only achieved three draws and two defeats.
The performance of the Indonesian National Team when they beat Saudi Arabia received praise from Shin Tae Yong. Apart from that, Shin Tae Yong also praised the tens of thousands of supporters who continue to provide support for the Indonesian National Team at the GBK Main Stadium.
“Thank you very much to the players, they were able to become one team today and play well. Moreover, the fans have also become one, and that is a big strength for the players.”
“What we prepared, the players were able to do well. From the start there was a good chance, maybe we could score more goals than the two, but I still want to thank the players for this result,” said Shin Tae Yong after the match.
Young midfielder Marselino Ferdinan was the star of the Indonesian National Team’s victory by scoring two goals in the 32nd and 57th minutes.
