Historical And Technical Records Of The Indonesian National Team Become Positive Capital Against Saudi Arabia And Iraq

Optimism for the Indonesian national team to win the group in the Fourth Round of the Strengthening 2026 World Cup Qualifiers (VOI/Karisa Aurelia Tukan).

JAKARTA - The draw for the Fourth Round of the 2026 World Cup Qualification was completed on Thursday, July 17, 2025, at noon WIB. As a result, the Indonesian national team is in Group B along with Saudi Arabia and Iraq.

Will face two strong teams in the Middle East region, the Indonesian national team is considered capable of competing with Saudi Arabia and Iraq.

This was conveyed by Bambang Nurdiansyah, the former legendary striker of the Garuda Squad.

In his statement, Bambang said that the opportunity for the Red-White Team to compete and even become champions in Group B was not at all wishful thinking.

This is because the Garuda Squad is currently in positive momentum and does have historical and technical capital to compete in this group.

"I think the Indonesian national team has been quite comfortable when they meet a team from Jazirah Arab or Middle East."

"They played progressive positioning which didn't really press all the time."

"This refers to Indonesia's positive results against Saudi Arabia in the past, such as victory in Jakarta and a draw at home to Saudi Arabia," said Bambang Nurdiansyah in a statement received Thursday, July 17, 2025.

Bambang also honestly considered that Iraq is currently slightly above Indonesia and Saudi Arabia, given the two defeats suffered by the Garuda Squad during the Second Round. However, he emphasized that it does not mean that the Indonesian national team has no chance.

On the other hand, with the current performance and composition of the players, Bambang sees that the Indonesian national team has great potential and even to win the top position of the group. One of Bambang's main highlights is the current depth of the Indonesian squad.

"The diaspora players provide a new dimension in the technical and mental strength of the team. The defense line, which has often been a weak point, is now considered to be one of the strongest sectors," he said.

The presence of Patrick Kluivert behind the wheel of the Garuda Squad was also considered by Bambang as a strong support for the team's tough performance.

The reason is, in addition to international reputation and experience, Kluiver is also supported by a comprehensive coaching team and a modern data-based approach as well as advanced technical analysis.

The results of this Group B draw must be seen as a big opportunity for the Indonesian national team. Although it cannot be considered light, it does not mean that Indonesia is an inferior team.

Saudi Arabia is an experienced team at the World Cup, but their inconsistency in qualifying suggests they can be defeated.

Likewise Iraq, although technically and physically strong, they have also shown loopholes that can be exploited with the right tactics.

With a combination of fighting spirit, modern strategy, squad depth, and track record starting to be positive at the Asian level, the Indonesian national team has all the provisions to not only compete, but also make history.

"Don't hesitate to set a target to qualify for the 2026 World Cup," said Bambang Nurdiansyah.