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TDT | Manama

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Bahrain’s World Cup Hopes on the Line Against Indonesia

Bahrain’s national team head into a critical AFC World Cup qualifier today, knowing that anything less than three points against Indonesia could spell the end of their 2026 hopes. At a press conference yesterday, head coach Dragan Talajić emphasized the stakes, saying, We have great respect for the Indonesian team and look forward to showcasing our quality in the upcoming match. Everything has been going smoothly in Jakarta—the people here are wonderful, and social media doesn’t always reflect the full picture. We’re not focusing on Indonesia’s last game against Australia; our attention is fully on preparing for tomorrow’s big match. Goalkeeper Ebrahim Lutfalla added, “We appreciate the Indonesian people for their warm welcome and hospitality. Our goal is to strengthen our position in the standings by securing three points and creating a gap between us and the competition."

Despite the controversy surrounding the October match, the Bahraini squad has nothing but praise for Indonesia, highlighting their hospitality and competitive spirit.

With both sides locked on six points in Group C, the clash at Jakarta’s Gelora Bung Karno Stadium (kick-off 4:45 PM Bahrain time) is as high-stakes as they come.

Crunch Time in Group C

With Japan already through and Australia (10 points), Saudi Arabia (9), and China (6) still battling for qualification spots, Bahrain and Indonesia are fighting to keep their chances alive. A win would take either side to nine points—potentially dragging them back into contention. A defeat, however, could leave them staring at an early exit. Dragan Talajić’s Bahrain side arrive off the back of a 2-0 defeat to Japan on March 20, where defensive vulnerabilities were exposed. Mohamed Marhoon, who struck twice in the reverse fixture—a 2-2 draw in Riffa—remains a key figure, while Sayed Dhiya will be tasked with dictating play in midfield.

Indonesia, meanwhile, are licking their wounds after a 5-1 hammering by Australia. Patrick Kluivert’s men have shown flashes of attacking promise, with Rafael Struick finding the net against Bahrain last time out, but their leaky defence remains a major concern.

Hostile Atmosphere Awaits

Jakarta’s Gelora Bung Karno Stadium is renowned for its intimidating atmosphere, and Bahrain will have to cope with both the crowd and a fired-up Indonesian side desperate to respond after their Sydney setback. The October meeting in Bahrain ended in controversy, with Indonesia furious at a late equaliser deep into stoppage time—fueling tensions ahead of this reverse fixture. Bahrain have spent the past few days acclimatising in Jakarta, fine-tuning their tactics and fitness levels. They’ll need all of that preparation to withstand what promises to be an aggressive, high-tempo start from the hosts.

A Must-Win for Bahrain

With just two matches remaining after this—Saudi Arabia at home (June 5), China away (June 10)—Bahrain cannot afford to slip up. The margin for error is razor-thin.

Expect a cagey, nervy affair with chances at both ends. Bahrain will look to Marhoon’s finishing and Dhiya’s creativity, while Indonesia will hope their home advantage and attacking pace can make the difference. It’s set up to be a thriller, but with so much on the line, Bahrain will be feeling the pressure and looking to rise to the occasion.