Saudi Gazette report

JEDDAH — The Saudi national team began its campaign in the third round of the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup with a 1-1 draw against Indonesia at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah.

The visiting team took the lead in the 19th minute when Ragnar scored with a powerful shot that deflected off Saudi defender Ali Al-Bulayhi, leaving goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais unable to stop it.

After several attacking attempts from the Saudi side, Musab Al-Juwayr managed to level the score with a long-range strike in the final minute of the first half.

The match saw continuous Saudi pressure, but the Indonesian defense held firm, securing a point for each team.

Saudi Arabia had a golden opportunity to take the lead in the 70th minute when they were awarded a penalty, but Indonesia's goalkeeper Martin Paes brilliantly saved Salem Al-Dawsari’s shot.

The Saudi team will need to improve its performance in the upcoming matches if it hopes to secure a direct qualification spot for the World Cup without needing to rely on the next round.

The Saudi national team is in Group C, considered the toughest of the three groups, alongside Australia, Japan, China, Bahrain, and Indonesia.

The top team and runner-up from each group will qualify directly for the World Cup, while six other teams will compete in the final playoffs for the remaining spots.