Draw with Saudi Arabia! Indonesian Coach: I am Satisfied with the Result; We Will Be the Dark Horse in This Group

In the early hours of September 6, the Indonesian team drew 1-1 with Saudi Arabia in the first round of the Asian qualifiers for the World Cup. After the match, Shin Tae-yong, the head coach of the Indonesian national team, expressed that they aim to be the “dark horse” in Group C.

In the first round of matches in Group C, the Indonesian team secured a valuable point at the King Abdullah Sports City in Saudi Arabia, which was a positive outcome. Shin Tae-yong was satisfied with this result, as before the game, the Indonesian team was not expected by outsiders to gain any points from Saudi Arabia, and was even considered unlikely to achieve good results in Group C.

At the post-match press conference, Shin Tae-yong confidently stated that the Indonesian team has the ability to cause trouble for other strong teams. “This match was very tough from the start. Although the hot weather affected both sides, we still demonstrated an excellent performance. I am very proud of the level shown by the players and am very satisfied with the result.”

He added, “Mancini is a very excellent coach who employed various tactical means during the game, but I have a thorough understanding of his players and the level of the Saudi league. I have full confidence in the players of the Indonesian national team. Our goal is very clear: to become the dark horse in these qualifiers.”

The Indonesian team performed brilliantly in the first half and took the lead in the 19th minute through Raphael Auwratman. Before the end of the first half, Indonesia conceded a goal, with Musab Al-Juweir equalizing for Saudi Arabia in the 45+3rd minute.

Saudi Arabia had a penalty opportunity in the 77th minute, but captain Salem Al-Dawsari’s shot was saved by Indonesian goalkeeper Marten Pas, failing to change the scoreline. The match ended 1-1.