Green Dawn: Saudi Edge Indonesia and Eye World Cup Glory as Iraq Looms
8 October 2025
Match snapshot
Saudi Arabia edged Indonesia 3-2 at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, opening the AFC Asian Qualifiers with a dramatic win that keeps their World Cup hopes alive.
Turning points and players
Indonesia took the lead with Kevin Dex's first-half penalty in the 11th minute, but the Green Falcons answered quickly, with Saleh Abu Al-Shamat equalizing in the 17th minute and Firas Brikan adding a double (36, 61) to seal the comeback.
Renard's side showed balance, blending experienced players with emerging talents to control periods and capitalize on key moments.
What’s at stake and quotes
With the victory, Saudi leads Group B on three points, and attention now shifts to Tuesday's showdown against Iraq at the same venue, which could seal their World Cup spot. Brikan noted that the crowd gives them a huge push and that they fought hard to earn the win. Abu Al-Shamat added that the fans were instrumental in their performance.
Renard stressed the need for balance and experience as the team pursues the next crucial result. The group winner goes directly to the World Cup; the second-placed team faces a playoff for a spot in the global tournament in 2026.
Saudi's win keeps them on track, while Iraq remains the final hurdle before a first World Cup qualification since 2006.
Punchline time: If confidence were a jersey, Saudi would wear it on every matchday. And if patience were a goalkeeper, Iraq would have a clean sheet forever.
