Bahrain, Indonesia share the spoils

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com

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At the Bahrain National Stadium, Bahrain and Indonesia played out an entertaining 2-2 draw in their latest FIFA 2026 World Cup AFC qualifier. Both teams fought until the last minute, leaving fans on the edge of their seats as late drama unfolded. Bahrain, playing in front of a vocal home crowd, started strong.

In the 15th minute, Mohamed Al Marhoon curled a stunning free-kick past Indonesian goalkeeper Maarten Paes, sending the Riffa crowd into early jubilation. Bahrain dominated the early stages, looking composed and dangerous in possession. However, despite their control, Indonesia struck back just before half-time. A defensive lapse allowed Ragnar Oratmangoen to sneak in behind Bahrain’s backline and tap in a deflected cross from close range, leveling the score at 1-1 going into the break.

The second half began with Bahrain still pressing forward, but their lack of precision in front of goal cost them. Indonesia, while largely on the back foot, proved opportunistic. In the 74th minute, a slick counterattack resulted in Rafael Struick’s wonderful strike from the edge of the box, giving the visitors a 2-1 lead. With time ticking down, Bahrain ramped up the pressure.

Their relentless push paid off in the dying moments of stoppage time when Al Marhoon came to the rescue yet again. After a scramble from a corner, Isa’s header found Marhoon, who fired a right-footed shot into the bottom corner to salvage a point for the hosts. In the end, both nations will be left wanting more. Despite the late equalizer, Bahrain will feel frustrated, having taken 17 shots compared to Indonesia’s four.

As they look ahead to the rest of their qualification campaign, this result will serve as both a warning and a reminder of the fine margins in football. Next up for Bahrain is another tough test in Riyadh in just five days, where they will aim to make amends for last night’s missed opportunities.