Indonesia Exact Revenge on Bahrain in Jakarta with Vital Win

Late Push Not Enough as Bahrain Suffer Setback in World Cup Qualification

Bahrain’s World Cup qualification campaign faced another setback yesterday in Jakarta, where they fell 1-0 to Indonesia in a cagey 90 minutes during the AFC World Cup Qualifiers. This loss compounds the sting of their recent 2-0 defeat to Japan on March 20, leaving Bahrain reeling as they struggle to find form in the third round. Meanwhile, Indonesia, buoyed by these 3 points, bounced back from a bruising 5-1 loss to Australia five days prior, exacting revenge on Bahrain after a controversial history. In their last meeting on October 10, 2024, Bahrain’s stoppage-time equalizer—scored past the allotted extra minutes—snatched a draw, sparking outrage among Indonesian fans and a wave of backlash. Yesterday, at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, Indonesia ensured no such late drama denied them victory.

Starting Lineups

Bahrain XI: 22 Ebrahim Lutfallah (GK), 17 Ahmed Bougammar, 3 Waleed Al Hayam, 16 Al Sayyid Mahdi Baqer, 23 Abdullah Al Khayaat, 4 Al Sayyid Dhiyaa Saeed, 20 Mahdi Humaidan, 10 Komail Al Aswad, 7 Ali Madan, 8 Mohamed Marhoon, 12 Mahdi Abduljabbar.

Indonesia XI: Paes (GK), Diks, Idzes, Ridho, Hubner, Verdonk, Haye, Pelupessy, Marselino, Oratmangoen, Romeny.

Jakarta Erupts as Romeny Strikes

The Gelora Bung Karno Stadium was electric as Indonesia took the lead in the first half through Romeny. The Dutch-born forward capped a swift attacking move, sending the home crowd into early jubilation and putting Bahrain on the defensive early in the match.

Bahrain Fight Back but Can’t Break Through

Bahrain came out revitalized after the break, pressing high and crafting chances. Midfielders Komail Al Aswad and Mohammed Marhoon orchestrated play, while forwards Mahdi Humaidan and Mahdi Abduljabbar tested Indonesia’s backline. Defender Waleed Al Hayam nearly equalized with a header that sailed just over, and in stoppage time, substitute Ali Madan’s volley drew a superb save from goalkeeper Paes.  

Group C Context  

The Indonesia-Bahrain match was one of three Group C matches played yesterday. Earlier, Japan and Saudi Arabia played out a 0-0 draw in Saitama, a result that kept Japan atop the group despite their already-secured qualification. Meanwhile, Australia strengthened their position with a 2-0 win over China in Hangzhou, underlining their consistency on the road. These outcomes frame Bahrain’s loss as a missed opportunity to gain ground in a tightly contested group.

Current Standings - Group C

• Japan (qualified) - 20 points

• Australia - 13 points

• Saudi Arabia - 10 points

• Indonesia - 9 points

• Bahrain - 6 points

• China - 6 points

Bahrain’s Final Push

• Bahrain vs Saudi Arabia – June 5 at Bahrain National Stadium, 1 PM

• China vs Bahrain – June 10 at Xiamen Egret Stadium, China, 1 PM

What’s Next for Bahrain?

Yesterday’s defeat leaves Bahrain in a precarious fifth place as they gear up to host Saudi Arabia on June 5. Coach Dragan Talajić faces the challenge of converting possession into goals, a recurring issue highlighted in Jakarta. With two matches remaining, Bahrain’s World Cup aspirations hang in the balance, but the dream remains alive—if only just.