KLIK SAJA - In their penultimate group-stage match of the AFC World Cup Qualifiers, Indonesia have a golden opportunity to advance to the next round as they host China at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium on Thursday, June 5.
The Garuda squad currently sits fourth in the standings with nine points, following a narrow 1-0 win over Bahrain on March 25.
In contrast, China suffered a 2-0 defeat to Australia on the same day and find themselves at the bottom of the table in sixth place with six points.
Indonesia delivered a dominant performance against Bahrain, allowing only one shot on target and a single big chance, while creating three major opportunities of their own.
However, the Red and White’s defensive fragility remains a concern, having conceded 14 goals across their eight group-stage matches and 10 goals in their last five outings.
Although automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup looks unlikely—Indonesia trail second-placed Australia by four points—Patrick Kluivert’s side can still secure a place in the next qualifying round if they defeat China and Bahrain lose to third-placed Saudi Arabia, who also play on Thursday.
Indonesia's recent form has been mixed, with two wins, two losses, and one draw in their last five matches.
On the bright side, they’ve won two of their last three AFC World Cup Qualifying fixtures.
At home, Indonesia have enjoyed a decent run, winning two of their last four matches at Gelora Bung Karno, losing just once, and scoring a total of six goals in that span.
China, meanwhile, conceded twice in the opening 30 minutes against Australia and have now shipped 19 goals in their first eight group matches.
The visitors have only qualified for a single World Cup in their history, and head coach Branko Ivankovic will be well aware that a loss on Thursday would all but end their campaign, especially with his team sitting three points behind Indonesia with just two games remaining.
The Dragon Team did manage to edge past Indonesia 2-1 in their previous meeting back in October 2024 during this qualifying cycle.
They also recorded a 1-0 win in their last encounter in November 2013.
However, recent form does not favor China. They have lost their last three matches and have only managed two wins from their previous five.
