Indonesia National Team missed its first victory after tying Bahrain National Team scoring 2-2 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Asian Qualifiers Round 3 Group C at Bahrain National Stadium, Riffa.
Bahrain started strongly, breaking the deadlock in the 15th minute through a stunning free-kick by Mohamed Marhoon. The midfielder unleashed a 35-yard rocket that smashed the crossbar and crossed the line, leaving Indonesian goalkeeper Maarten Paes helpless. Bahrain, buoyed by the early goal, continued to press, with Marhoon coming close again moments later, but his second effort sailed over the bar.
The home side dominated much of the first half, creating numerous chances. Ali Madan’s curling shot in the 39th minute forced a fine save from Paes, and two minutes later, Amine Benaddi’s header narrowly missed the target.
Indonesia, however, found a lifeline just before the break. In the third minute of added time, a lapse in Bahrain’s defense allowed Ragnar Oratmangoen to capitalize on a loose ball following a header by Sandy Walsh. Oratmangoen slotted it past Bahrain’s goalkeeper Ebrahim Lutfalla, bringing Indonesia level at 1-1 and providing momentum heading into halftime.
Indonesian head coach Shin Tae-yong made key substitutions for the second half, introducing Rizky Ridho and debutant Eliano Reijnders to freshen up the squad. The changes had an immediate impact, with Indonesia growing in confidence and creating more opportunities.
In the 74th minute, Indonesia took the lead. Oratmangoen skillfully controlled a clearance from Jay Idzes, and the ball eventually found Rafael Struick, who curled a sensational shot beyond Lutfalla, putting Indonesia ahead 2-1.
Bahrain, desperate to salvage something from the match, threw everything forward in the dying minutes. Their persistence paid off deep into stoppage time when Marhoon netted his second goal, guiding the ball home from close range following a corner to rescue a point for Bahrain.
With this result, Indonesia will now travel to face China PR in Qingdao on Tuesday, while Bahrain will head to Jeddah to take on Saudi Arabia.
Credit Photo : AFC
