Saudi Arabia staged a thrilling comeback to defeat Indonesia 3-2 on Wednesday, moving closer to securing a place in the 2026 World Cup finals. The Green Falcons' resilience was on full display at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah, as they overcame an early deficit to dominate the Asian qualifiers' fourth round opener.

Indonesia shocked the home crowd by taking the lead in the 11th minute. A handball by Hassan Tambakti in the penalty area allowed Kevin Diks to convert a spot-kick, leaving the stadium momentarily stunned. Despite Saudi Arabia scoring only seven goals across the third-round qualifiers, optimism returned quickly as the hosts equalized just six minutes later.

Saleh Abu Al-Shamat, a key figure from Al-Ahli, turned inside a defender and struck a left-footed shot past goalkeeper Maarten Paes, giving Saudi Arabia renewed momentum. Ten minutes before halftime, the team took the lead through a penalty successfully converted by Firas Al-Buraikan, highlighting his critical role in the campaign.

Al-Buraikan struck again after the hour mark, capitalizing on a rebound from a Musab Al-Juwayr effort to secure the third goal. The Saudi side maintained aggressive pressure throughout, aware that goal difference could influence the final group standings and their path to qualification.

The closing stages brought tension as Indonesia earned a late penalty, converted once more by Diks in the 89th minute. A red card for Saudi substitute Mohammed Kanno added to the drama, but the Green Falcons held firm to claim the crucial victory.

Saudi Arabia can now cement their seventh World Cup appearance with a win against Iraq on Tuesday. Group B remains highly competitive, with Iraq and Indonesia still vying for qualification, while Group A sees Qatar, Oman, and the UAE battling for top spots. The 2026 World Cup in North America inches closer for the Saudi squad, fueled by determination and key performances from Al-Shamat and Al-Buraikan.

Source:

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