Riyadh – Saudi Arabia’s defeat to Indonesia has left a lasting impression. Saudi media are still questioning: How could this happen?
Saudi Arabia concluded their final international break with an embarrassing result. Herve Renard’s team was defeated 0-2 by Indonesia at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, Senayan, on November 19.
In the third round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Asian Qualifiers, Saudi Arabia suffered their first-ever loss to Indonesia. The result was even more painful as The Green Falcons’ chances of qualifying for the World Cup came under scrutiny.
Saudi Arabia is now ranked 4th in Group C of the Third Round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Asian Qualifiers with 6 points. They were overtaken by Indonesia, which climbed to 3rd place with the same points but a better goal difference.
The defeat to Indonesia, described by Saudi media, came as a shock. Many media outlets continue to question how such a poor result occurred.
Al Riyadh wrote, “The question that arises is, why did our team lose to the Indonesian team?! Has the Indonesian team improved, or has our Saudi team declined?!”
Furthermore, Al Riyadh urged Saudi Arabia to show greater respect for their opponents. They expressed hope for a comeback in the matches against China and Japan.
“Most importantly, we must respect all competing teams, play seriously, avoid underestimating our opponents, and select the best players to represent The Greens and deliver top performances in the next two matches against China and Japan, especially China on home soil,” they wrote.
Saudi Arabia’s next matches will be against China and Japan, scheduled for March 20 and 25, 2025.
