Indonesia's Impressive Run in the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers: Will They Make It?

Journey Through the Qualifiers

Second Round Success

Indonesia's journey in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers began in the second round, where they were placed in a challenging group. Despite the tough competition, the team managed to secure a second-place finish behind Iraq, earning them a spot in the third round. Key results from the second round include:

• Iraq 5-1 Indonesia (16 November 2023)

• Philippines 1-1 Indonesia (21 November 2023)

• Indonesia 1-0 Vietnam (21 March 2024)

• Vietnam 0-3 Indonesia (26 March 2024)

• Indonesia 0-2 Iraq (6 June 2024)

• Indonesia 2-0 Philippines (11 June 2024)
  

Third Round Challenges

In the third round, Indonesia was drawn into a tough group containing perennial qualifiers Australia, Japan, and Saudi Arabia. Despite the formidable opposition, the Garuda team has shown remarkable resilience. Notable results from the third round include:

• Saudi Arabia 1-1 Indonesia (5 September 2024)

• Indonesia 0-0 Australia (10 September 2024)

• Bahrain 2-2 Indonesia (10 October 2024)

• China PR 2-1 Indonesia (15 October 2024)

• Indonesia 0-4 Japan (14 November 2024)

• Indonesia 2-0 Saudi Arabia (19 November 2024)

Key Players and Performances

Several players have been instrumental in Indonesia's impressive run. Young midfielder Marselino Ferdinan has emerged as a key figure, scoring crucial goals and providing creative spark. The defensive duo of Rizky Ridho and Jay Idzes has also been solid at the back, helping the team maintain a strong defensive record.

Prospects of Qualifying

Indonesia's chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup depend on their performances in the remaining matches of the third round. The top two nations in each of the three third-round groups secure direct qualification, while teams finishing third and fourth advance to the fourth round, where additional places are available. Indonesia's upcoming fixtures include:

• Australia (Away): 20 March 2025

• Bahrain (Home): 25 March 2025

• China PR (Home): 5 June 2025

• Japan (Away): 10 June 2025

To secure a spot in the World Cup, Indonesia will need to continue their strong performances and secure positive results in these crucial matches.

Conclusion

Indonesia's journey in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers has been nothing short of impressive. The team's resilience, determination, and strong performances have given them a fighting chance of qualifying for the tournament. While the road ahead is challenging, the Garuda team has shown that they have the potential to make history and secure a spot in the World Cup.

FAQs

Q: How has Indonesia performed in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers so far? A: Indonesia has performed impressively, securing a second-place finish in the second round and showing resilience in the third round against tough opponents.

Q: Who are the key players for Indonesia in the qualifiers? A: Key players include young midfielder Marselino Ferdinan and the defensive duo of Rizky Ridho and Elkan Baggott.

Q: What are Indonesia's upcoming fixtures in the third round? A: Indonesia's upcoming fixtures include matches against Australia (Away), Bahrain (Home), China PR (Home), and Japan (Away).

Q: What are Indonesia's chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup? A: Indonesia's chances depend on their performances in the remaining matches of the third round. They need to secure positive results to advance to the fourth round or secure direct qualification.

Q: Who is the coach of the Indonesian national team? A: The Indonesian national team is coached by Shin Tae-yong.