Renard’s Tightrope: Can Saudi Arabia Decode Indonesia in Asia’s World Cup Push?
8 October 2025
Identity in Question
In a moment where tactical math meets psychological bets, Hervé Renard, the Saudi coach, faces a fresh test that could shape the Green’s identity in the Asian playoff toward the 2026 World Cup.
Many questions loom: which approach will he choose? which cards will he deploy against Indonesia?
The Green are set to face their Indonesian opponents on Wednesday evening, in the AFC World Cup Qualifiers play-off for a place in the finals.
The Saudis also have a looming matchup in the same play-off against Iraq next week, with the group winner earning a direct World Cup berth and the runners-up facing a two-legged playoff for a shot at the global playoff.
Tactical Debates and Key Players
Since Renard’s return, the team has yet to sketch a clear identity, oscillating between expansive attacking intent and more cautious defending. Results have reflected this uncertainty, with no consistent run of wins to embolden fans or define the team’s character.
That lack of stability, observers say, mirrors an ongoing search for the right “formula” for a Saudi side that still aspires to a standout performance on the world stage.
Former Saudi star Hamad Al-Montashri offered a pragmatic view: a tough night awaits every player, with focus as the decisive factor. He also suggested Abdullah Hamdan as a potential breakthrough option, noting his recent form for both the Green and Al Hilal. Al-Montashri favored starting Hamdan behind a striker like Feras Al-Buraikan, leveraging his scoring touch.
Al-Montashri also highlighted the benefit of a tighter midfield link, urging Renard to explore a pairing that allows Nasser Al-Dosari to drive play and strengthen both defense and transition.
Analysts have pointed to Indonesia’s compact setup and dangerous crosses as a test for Saudi’s structure, while proposing long-range shooting and quick combinations as ways to unlock the defense.
On the Pitch: Indonesia vs Saudi Preview
Saudi Arabia’s lineup, if it follows expectant selections, features Nawwaf Al-Aqidi in goal and a back line of Saud Abdul Hamid, Hassan Tambakti, Jihad Dhikr, and Muteb Al-Harbi. In midfield, Musab Al-Juwaier, Nasser Al-Dosari, and Mohammed Kanno are anticipated to marshal the ball, with Salem Al-Dawsari, Feras Al-Buraikan, and Ayman Yahya leading the attack. Indonesia will seek to stifle the Saudis’ rhythm and strike on the break, making the opening minutes crucial for momentum and confidence.
Saudi fans remain hopeful that the blend of experience and youth, if executed with discipline, can translate into a decisive result. The match is a big moment for Renard to demonstrate a coherent approach rather than a collection of promising moments.
Humor break: If Renard’s playbook were a secret agent, it would be “Agent 007: The Case of the Missing Identity.”
Humor break 2: And if Indonesia plans a bus-park strategy, just remember: even a bus needs a route; sometimes the road to goal is a sprint, sometimes a clever detour.
