Arabian Weekly report
JAKARTA — Indonesia defeated Saudi Arabia 2-0 in the AFC Asian Qualifiers – Road to 26 Group C match at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium on Tuesday.
Marselino Ferdinan scored on either side of halftime, securing a historic victory that puts Indonesia level on six points with Saudi Arabia and China PR. Australia, also on six points, was set to face Bahrain later on Tuesday.
Indonesia nearly opened the scoring in the first minute when Ivar Jenner’s well-timed through ball sent Marselino Ferdinan through on goal. Marselino’s shot beat Saudi keeper Ahmed Al Kassar but ricocheted off the right post.
The hosts continued their aggressive start, with Rizky Ridho’s long ball finding Ragnar Oratmangoen in the fifth minute. Oratmangoen’s effort was blocked by Hassan Tambakti, and subsequent attempts by Sandy Walsh and Marselino failed to find the net.
Indonesia’s relentless pressure exposed Saudi Arabia’s defense repeatedly. In the 32nd minute, Ragnar Oratmangoen burst down the left flank and delivered a pinpoint cutback to Marselino, who powered his shot past a stunned Al Kassar to break the deadlock.
Despite pushing for an equalizer, Saudi Arabia failed to capitalize on opportunities. Faisal Al Ghamdi tested Indonesian goalkeeper Maarten Paes, but missed chances from Nasser Al Dawsari and Feras Al Brikan left Hervé Renard’s side frustrated at halftime.
Saudi Arabia began the second half with urgency but left gaps at the back, allowing Indonesia to extend their lead in the 57th minute. Calvin Verdonk’s surge into the box set up Marselino, who recovered from his initial blocked shot to calmly chip the ball into an empty net.
The match took a dramatic turn in the 89th minute when Indonesia’s Justin Hubner was sent off after receiving his second yellow card. Despite being reduced to 10 men, Indonesia held firm to secure their first-ever win at this stage of the AFC Asian Qualifiers.
Indonesia will face Australia away when the qualifiers resume in March, while Saudi Arabia will look to bounce back as they host China PR.