indonesia national football team vs saudi arabia national football team lineups

The clash between the indonesia national football team vs saudi arabia national football team lineups delivered one of the most memorable nights in Indonesian football history. On November 19, 2024, at the iconic Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta, Indonesia achieved what no Southeast Asian nation had accomplished before – defeating the mighty Saudi Arabia in a World Cup qualifying match. The atmosphere was electric as 55,970 passionate fans witnessed their team secure a stunning 2-0 victory that sent shockwaves across Asian football.

This encounter between the saudi arabia national football team vs indonesia national football team lineups showcased contrasting styles and ambitions. Indonesia, fighting to keep their World Cup qualification dreams alive, deployed a tactical masterclass under coach Shin Tae-yong. Saudi Arabia, traditionally one of Asia’s powerhouses, dominated possession but struggled to break down Indonesia’s resolute defense. The match featured standout performances from Marselino Ferdinan, who scored twice, and goalkeeper Maarten Paes, whose crucial saves preserved Indonesia’s clean sheet. This victory marked Indonesia’s first-ever win in the third round of World Cup qualifiers and their first triumph over Saudi Arabia in history.

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🏟️ Key Players and Teams Who Took the Field

Teams and Key Players

Game Details

Match Breakdown

The indonesia national football team vs saudi arabia national football team lineups revealed Shin Tae-yong’s tactical adjustments from the previous match against Japan. Indonesia deployed a defensive 5-3-2 formation designed to absorb pressure and launch quick counterattacks. Saudi Arabia’s 4-1-4-1 setup prioritized possession and width, attempting to break down Indonesia’s compact defensive structure through patient buildup play.

📊 First Half Breakdown (0-0 → 1-0)

Key Moments

The opening 45 minutes showcased Indonesia’s aggressive intent from the kickoff. Within two minutes, Marselino Ferdinan unleashed a powerful shot that struck the post, serving as an early warning to Saudi Arabia. The Green Falcons struggled to find their rhythm as Indonesia pressed high and disrupted their passing lanes.

In the 8th minute, Rafael Struick broke free behind Saudi Arabia’s defense following a precise through ball from Ivar Jenner. One-on-one with goalkeeper Ahmed Al-Kassar, Struick’s weak shot was comfortably saved, representing a missed golden opportunity for the hosts.

The breakthrough arrived in the 32nd minute through brilliant combination play. Ragnar Oratmangoen drifted in from the right flank, drawing defenders toward him before delivering a perfectly weighted back-pass into the penalty area. Marselino Ferdinan, completely unmarked, struck a thunderous shot into the top corner that gave Al-Kassar no chance. The stadium erupted as Indonesia took a deserved 1-0 lead.

Shifts in Momentum

Indonesia controlled the opening 15 minutes with their high-energy pressing and direct attacking play. Saudi Arabia gradually gained possession but struggled to create clear chances against Indonesia’s well-organized defensive block. The goal against the run of play shifted momentum firmly back to Indonesia, who grew in confidence while Saudi Arabia became increasingly frustrated.

Player Substitutions/Injuries

No substitutions were made in the first half. Sandy Walsh received treatment for a minor knock but continued playing. Saudi Arabia’s Mohamed Kanno also required brief attention from medical staff but returned to action.

Notable Strategies

Indonesia employed a counterattacking strategy masterfully, absorbing Saudi Arabia’s possession before launching rapid transitions. Shin Tae-yong positioned Marselino Ferdinan and Rafael Struick as twin strikers capable of exploiting spaces behind Saudi Arabia’s high defensive line. The wing-backs, Calvin Verdonk and Sandy Walsh, provided width in attack while quickly recovering defensively.

Saudi Arabia attempted to dominate through possession, with Mohamed Kanno dropping deep to collect the ball and initiate attacks. However, Indonesia’s compact midfield trio of Ivar Jenner, Thom Haye, and Marselino effectively clogged central areas, forcing Saudi Arabia wide where they posed less threat.

Extra Insights

The Gelora Bung Karno Stadium atmosphere reached fever pitch after Marselino’s opening goal. The crowd’s energy visibly lifted Indonesian players while appearing to unsettle their opponents. Calvin Verdonk nearly doubled Indonesia’s lead just before halftime, but his shot narrowly missed, hitting the side netting.

📊 Second Half Breakdown (1-0 → 2-0)

Key Moments

Saudi Arabia emerged from halftime with renewed aggression, launching waves of attacks in search of an equalizer. Coach Hervé Renard’s instructions were evident as the Green Falcons increased their tempo and width, creating their best chances of the match.

In the 52nd minute, Indonesia threatened again when Ragnar Oratmangoen met Sandy Walsh’s cross with a powerful header, forcing a fine save from Al-Kassar. This warning went unheeded.

The decisive moment came in the 57th minute. Indonesia executed a lightning-quick counterattack as Calvin Verdonk drove forward down the left flank. His low cross into the penalty area found Marselino Ferdinan, whose initial shot was blocked by a Saudi defender. Displaying remarkable composure, Marselino recovered the loose ball and fired past Al-Kassar to make it 2-0. The young star had secured his brace and effectively sealed the victory.

In the 71st minute, Saudi Arabia came agonizingly close to reducing the deficit when Mohamed Kanno’s powerful shot from distance rattled the crossbar with Maarten Paes beaten.

Shifts in Momentum

Saudi Arabia dominated the opening 20 minutes of the second half, pinning Indonesia back with sustained pressure. However, Marselino’s second goal completely deflated the visitors. Indonesia then focused on game management, slowing the tempo and protecting their lead through tactical fouls and time-wasting when necessary.

Player Substitutions/Injuries

Indonesia Substitutions:

• 61′: Nathan Tjoe-A-On replaced Thom Haye (tactical, fresh legs in midfield)
• 78′: Shayne Pattynama replaced Rafael Struick (defensive reinforcement)
• 87′: Muhammad Ferarri replaced Ragnar Oratmangoen (preserving energy)

Saudi Arabia Substitutions:

• 61′: Musab Al-Juwayr and Saleh Al-Shehri replaced Faisal Al-Ghamdi and Firas Al-Buraikan (attacking changes)
• 68′: Abdullah Al-Hamdan replaced Mohammed Al-Qahtani (final attacking push)

Notable Strategies

After taking a 2-0 lead, Indonesia dropped deeper, forming two compact lines of four with Marselino as the lone forward. This defensive shell frustrated Saudi Arabia, who lacked the creativity to unlock Indonesia’s organized defense. Indonesia’s strategy focused on protecting the result through disciplined positioning and quick clearances.

Saudi Arabia abandoned their patient buildup approach, instead launching direct balls toward target man Abdullah Al-Hamdan. This shift in strategy played into Indonesia’s hands, as their central defenders won most aerial duels.

Extra Insights

Justin Hubner received his second yellow card in the 89th minute for an off-the-ball incident, reducing Indonesia to 10 men. However, with just minutes remaining, this dismissal had minimal impact on the result. The final whistle sparked jubilant celebrations as Indonesia secured a historic victory that will be remembered for generations.

🌟 Highlight Standout Performances

Star Players and Their Stats

Shooting Performance

Defensive Statistics

Clutch Moments

Marselino Ferdinan’s First Goal (32′): The 20-year-old Oxford United player demonstrated exceptional positioning and finishing ability, finding space in a crowded penalty area before unleashing an unstoppable shot into the top corner. This goal broke Southeast Asian football barriers and proved that Indonesia belonged on this stage.

Marselino’s Second Goal (57′): His persistence after the initial blocked shot exemplified winner’s mentality. While many players would have hesitated, Marselino immediately pounced on the rebound and finished clinically.

Maarten Paes’ Multiple Saves: The FC Dallas goalkeeper made three crucial saves, including a point-blank stop in the first half. His positioning and shot-stopping ability kept Saudi Arabia’s prolific attackers at bay.

Calvin Verdonk’s Assist: The 27-year-old wing-back’s driving run and precise cross created Indonesia’s second goal, showcasing his attacking instincts despite playing in a defensive system.

Leadership and Teamwork

Captain Jay Idzes marshaled Indonesia’s defense with authority, organizing the defensive line and winning crucial aerial duels. His communication kept teammates positioned correctly throughout Saudi Arabia’s sustained pressure periods. The defensive unit’s collective discipline reflected excellent coaching and mutual understanding.

Shin Tae-yong’s tactical intelligence deserves special recognition. His game plan perfectly exploited Saudi Arabia’s weaknesses while maximizing Indonesia’s strengths, particularly in transition moments.

📈 Key Statistics

Final Score

Possession and Territory

Attacking Statistics

Set Pieces

Discipline

🗣️ Quotes and Reactions

Player Reactions

Marselino Ferdinan (Indonesia – Man of the Match):

• “This is the greatest moment of my career so far. Scoring twice against Saudi Arabia, a team that has been to multiple World Cups, is something I’ll never forget.”
• “We believed in ourselves and our game plan. Coach Shin prepared us perfectly for this match.”
• “This victory isn’t just for us, it’s for all of Indonesia. We’ve shown that Southeast Asian teams can compete with Asia’s best.”

Maarten Paes (Indonesia – Goalkeeper):

• “I am so proud of my team and the country. Marselino scored two great goals, and we defended so well.”
• “We knew that this was an important game, and to get a win, that gives us so much confidence. It is so close in our group.”
• “The atmosphere at Gelora Bung Karno was incredible. The fans gave us the energy to keep fighting until the final whistle.”

Calvin Verdonk (Indonesia – Wing-back):

• “We executed our game plan to perfection. We knew we couldn’t match Saudi Arabia in possession, so we had to be clinical on the counter.”
• “Assisting Marselino’s second goal was a special moment. We worked on those attacking transitions in training all week.”

Coaching Perspectives

Shin Tae-yong (Indonesia Head Coach):

• “We played with determination from the start. This victory shows the progress Indonesian football has made.”
• “Marselino is a special talent, but this win was about the entire team’s effort and discipline.”
• “This is just the beginning. We must continue working hard to achieve our World Cup qualification dream.”

Hervé Renard (Saudi Arabia Head Coach):

• “We dominated possession and created chances, but we weren’t clinical enough in the final third.”
• “Credit to Indonesia for their organization and efficiency. They took their opportunities while we didn’t.”
• “We must analyze this defeat and respond stronger in our remaining matches.”

Analyst Commentary

Asian Football Expert Commentary:

• “This result represents a seismic shift in Asian football dynamics. Indonesia has announced themselves as genuine contenders in World Cup qualification.”
• “Marselino Ferdinan’s performance confirms he’s one of Asia’s brightest young talents. At just 20 years old, he delivered on the biggest stage.”
• “Saudi Arabia’s possession dominance proved meaningless without penetration. Indonesia’s defensive organization was world-class.”

Fan and Media Reactions

• Indonesian football fans celebrated across the nation, with streets filling with supporters chanting and waving flags late into the night.
• Social media exploded with praise for Marselino Ferdinan, with #MarselinoMagic trending worldwide.
• International media outlets highlighted this as one of the biggest upsets in Asian World Cup qualifying history.

🧠 Match Analysis

What Went Right for Indonesia

Tactical Discipline: Indonesia executed Shin Tae-yong’s defensive game plan with remarkable precision. The 5-3-2 formation created a solid defensive structure that Saudi Arabia struggled to penetrate despite their overwhelming possession advantage. Every player understood their defensive responsibilities, maintaining compact lines and denying space in dangerous areas.

Clinical Finishing: With only 13 shots compared to Saudi Arabia’s 23, Indonesia’s 15.4% conversion rate proved decisive. Marselino Ferdinan’s composure in front of goal contrasted sharply with Saudi Arabia’s wasteful finishing. Indonesia capitalized on their limited opportunities through quality over quantity.

Counterattacking Excellence: Indonesia’s transition play was devastating. Both goals originated from quick counterattacks that exploited Saudi Arabia’s high defensive line. Calvin Verdonk and Sandy Walsh provided pace and precision on the flanks, while Marselino and Ragnar Oratmangoen’s movement created constant threats.

Goalkeeping Brilliance: Maarten Paes delivered a match-winning performance with three crucial saves. His positioning and decision-making under pressure gave Indonesia’s defense confidence to maintain their aggressive pressing approach.

What Went Wrong for Saudi Arabia

Poor Finishing: Despite 23 shots, Saudi Arabia managed only three on target, with Mohamed Kanno’s crossbar strike being their closest opportunity. Their forwards lacked composure in the penalty area, repeatedly firing high or wide under minimal pressure.

Inability to Break Down Deep Defense: Saudi Arabia’s possession proved sterile against Indonesia’s organized low block. They lacked creative solutions, relying too heavily on crossing into areas where Indonesia’s aerial superiority neutralized their attacks.

Defensive Vulnerability in Transition: Saudi Arabia’s high defensive line was repeatedly exposed by Indonesia’s pace on the counter. Their defenders struggled to recover when possession was lost, particularly down the flanks where Indonesia’s wing-backs exploited space.

Lack of Plan B: When their possession-based approach failed to yield results, Saudi Arabia had no alternative strategy. Their substitutions added attackers but didn’t change the tactical approach, making them predictable and easier to defend against.

Offensive and Defensive Analysis

Indonesia’s Defensive Success:

• Compact 5-3-2 shape limited central penetration
• Aggressive pressing in midfield disrupted Saudi Arabia’s buildup
• Excellent aerial defending won 22 duels
• Disciplined positioning prevented clear shooting opportunities

Indonesia’s Offensive Efficiency:

• Quick transitions caught Saudi Arabia unbalanced
• Wing-backs provided width and pace in attack
• Forward movement created space for Marselino’s goals
• Set-piece delivery threatened throughout

Saudi Arabia’s Offensive Failures:

• Over-reliance on possession without penetration
• Poor shot selection and finishing
• Inability to create clear chances despite territorial dominance
• Predictable wide play easily defended

Saudi Arabia’s Defensive Issues:

• High line vulnerable to pace on the counter
• Poor recovery when possession lost
• Inadequate marking on Marselino’s goals
• Communication breakdowns in critical moments

Controversial Calls and Game-Changing Moments

Justin Hubner’s Red Card (89′): The Indonesian defender received his second yellow card for an off-the-ball incident involving a Saudi player. While the decision appeared harsh based on replays showing minimal contact, it had little impact given the timing with just minutes remaining.

Penalty Appeal Denied: Saudi Arabia appealed for a penalty in the 28th minute when Saud Abdulhamid went down in the box under Jay Idzes’ challenge. VAR reviewed the incident and determined there was insufficient contact to warrant a penalty, with Abdulhamid appearing to lose balance naturally.

Mohamed Kanno’s Crossbar (71′): This near-miss represented Saudi Arabia’s closest chance. Had the ball dropped a few centimeters lower, the match’s narrative might have changed dramatically, potentially sparking a comeback. Instead, it symbolized Saudi Arabia’s frustrating night.

Recent Form Comparison

Indonesia Coming Into the Match:

• Previous match: Lost 0-4 to Japan (home)
• Record in qualifying: 0 wins, 3 draws, 2 losses
• Position: 6th in Group C with 3 points
• Form guide: L-L-D-D-D (poor)
• Needed: Victory to revive World Cup hopes

Saudi Arabia Coming Into the Match:

• Previous match: Won 2-1 vs China (away)
• Record in qualifying: 1 win, 3 draws, 1 loss
• Position: 2nd in Group C with 6 points
• Form guide: W-D-L-D-D (inconsistent)
• Expected: Victory to solidify qualification position

The form contrast made Indonesia’s victory even more remarkable, as they overcame recent poor results and exceeded all expectations against a team in relatively better form.

🏁 Conclusion

The indonesia national football team vs saudi arabia national football team lineups clash on November 19, 2024, produced a result that will echo through Indonesian football history for decades. Indonesia’s comprehensive 2-0 victory over Saudi Arabia represented more than just three crucial World Cup qualifying points—it shattered perceptions about Southeast Asian football’s competitiveness at the highest level.

Marselino Ferdinan emerged as the hero, scoring twice to secure Indonesia’s first-ever victory in the third round of World Cup qualifiers and their first triumph over Saudi Arabia in history. His clinical finishing, combined with Maarten Paes’ goalkeeping excellence and the team’s tactical discipline, delivered a performance worthy of this historic occasion.

This victory moved Indonesia level on six points with Saudi Arabia, China, and Australia in Group C, keeping their World Cup qualification dreams alive heading into the final four matches of the campaign. While Japan remained atop the group with 16 points, the battle for the second automatic qualification spot and the playoff position intensified dramatically.

For Saudi Arabia, this defeat represented a significant setback in their qualification campaign. Despite dominating possession with 76% and outshooting Indonesia 23 to 13, they failed to convert territorial superiority into goals, raising serious questions about their attacking effectiveness and defensive organization in transition.

Looking Ahead

Indonesia’s Remaining Fixtures (2025):

• March 20: Away vs Australia
• March 25: Home vs Bahrain
• June 5: Home vs China
• June 10: Away vs Japan

Indonesia must build on this momentum, particularly in winnable home matches against Bahrain and China. Victory in both would dramatically enhance their qualification prospects.

Saudi Arabia’s Remaining Fixtures (2025):

• Must regroup and capitalize on favorable fixtures to secure qualification
• Need tactical adjustments to overcome deep defensive blocks
• Forward line requires improved clinical finishing

Final Thought

November 19, 2024, will forever be remembered as the night Indonesian football came of age. In front of nearly 56,000 passionate supporters at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Indonesia proved they belong among Asia’s elite. Marselino Ferdinan’s brace didn’t just secure three points—it inspired a generation and demonstrated that with proper preparation, tactical intelligence, and unwavering belief, any team can achieve the extraordinary. This victory transcends football, representing national pride, regional progress, and the beautiful game’s power to unite and inspire millions. The journey toward the 2026 World Cup continues, but regardless of the final outcome, Indonesian football has already written its most glorious chapter.

❓ FAQs Section

Q1: What was the final score of Indonesia vs Saudi Arabia on November 19, 2024?

A: Indonesia defeated Saudi Arabia 2-0 in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Asian Qualifiers Group C match at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta. Marselino Ferdinan scored both goals in the 32nd and 57th minutes.

Q2: Who were the standout performers in the Indonesia vs Saudi Arabia match?

A: Marselino Ferdinan was named Man of the Match after scoring twice for Indonesia. Goalkeeper Maarten Paes delivered a world-class performance with three crucial saves. Calvin Verdonk assisted the second goal and controlled the left flank. For Saudi Arabia, Mohamed Kanno came closest to scoring, hitting the crossbar in the 71st minute.

Q3: What formations did Indonesia and Saudi Arabia use?

A: Indonesia deployed a defensive 5-3-2 formation designed to absorb pressure and counterattack. Their lineup featured wing-backs Calvin Verdonk and Sandy Walsh providing width. Saudi Arabia utilized a 4-1-4-1 formation with Mohamed Kanno as the defensive midfielder and Salem Al-Dawsari leading the wide attacks.

Q4: How significant was this victory for Indonesia?

A: This was Indonesia’s first-ever victory in the third round of World Cup qualification and their first win over Saudi Arabia in history. It moved them level on six points with Saudi Arabia, Australia, and China in Group C, reviving their 2026 World Cup qualification hopes. The result represents one of the biggest achievements in Indonesian football history.

Q5: What were the match statistics for possession and shots?

A: Saudi Arabia dominated possession with 76% compared to Indonesia’s 24%. However, Indonesia was more clinical, converting 6 of their 13 shots on target (46.2% accuracy) into 2 goals. Saudi Arabia managed only 3 shots on target from 23 attempts (13.0% accuracy) and failed to score.

Q6: Were there any controversial moments or red cards?

A: Justin Hubner received a second yellow card in the 89th minute for an off-the-ball incident, reducing Indonesia to 10 men. Saudi Arabia appealed for a penalty in the 28th minute, but VAR confirmed the referee’s decision to play on. Mohamed Kanno hit the crossbar in the 71st minute in Saudi Arabia’s closest opportunity.

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