Kluivert Calls Out Saudi Organization, Unveils Strategy for Iraq Showdown

Dutch coach Patrick Kluivert, head coach of Indonesia, criticized the organizational setup around the opening match of the AFC Asian World Cup qualifiers, especially the crowd management.

Indonesia lost 3-2 to Saudi Arabia in the first round and now prepares for Iraq in the upcoming second round.

During a pre-match press conference, Kluivert said the attendance arrangements were unacceptable and urged the Saudi federation to review how fans are admitted in a smooth and serious manner.

Indonesia enjoyed strong fan support at the Enmaa stadium in Jeddah against the hosts, yet the Dutch coach argued that more must be done to guarantee fair and well-organized support for both teams.

Special Strategy for Iraq

Regarding the Iraq game, Kluivert noted that they will play again soon and are working on what they believe is the best plan for the match. He indicated that details of the strategy might be discussed after the game, but for now there is no need to reveal everything.

The Indonesian side had shown significant backing from fans, but the coach stressed that better coordination would help both sides receive appropriate support.

Match Facts and Player Spotlight

Saudi Arabia moved closer to the World Cup 2026 dream with a 3-2 victory over Indonesia, taking top spot in Group B with three points and setting up a clash with Iraq in Jeddah on the following Tuesday.

In the game, Indonesia opened the scoring in the 11th minute through a Kevin Dix penalty, but Saudi Arabia quickly levelled through Saleh Abu Al-Shamat in the 17th minute. Firas Al-Breikan then converted a penalty in the 36th minute to give the Green Falcons a 2-1 lead, with Saudi extending the advantage to 3-1 in the 61st minute.

Kevin Dix reduced Indonesia's deficit with a second Indonesian penalty in the 88th minute, setting a dramatic finale.

Under the competition rules, the group winner advances directly to the World Cup finals, while the runner-up faces a two-legged playoff against the runner-up of the other group to determine the final qualifying spot.

Team readiness: Hervé Renard, the Saudi coach, received good news ahead of the Iraq clash. Saleh Abu Al-Shamat was confirmed fit to play after a minor fatigue issue from the Indonesia game.

Abu Al-Shamat’s international impact was highlighted by his debut goal, accompanied by a 7.9 rating, second only to Firas Al-Breikan who struck twice. Since joining Al-Ahli, he has brought a genuine attacking threat to the Green Falcons.

Last season he had one goal and six assists in 31 appearances for Gulf club Al-Ghazl (Al-Gulf). This season he has yet to score in eight matches for Al-Ahli but remains a key competitive option alongside teammates such as Firas Al-Breikan, Ivan Toni, Galino, and Riyad Mahrez.

Overall, Abu Al-Shamat’s early-season form shows his potential as a versatile forward who could impact the forthcoming fixtures. He faces stiff competition for striking duties, yet his talent is undeniable.

Punchline time: If organization were width, this match would need more space—definitely not a VAR moment, more of a spectator sport with extra attention to entrances. Punchline two: Kluivert’s playbook might be long, but apparently it’s written in invisible ink—you’ll see the plan when the stadium lights finally stay onside.”