In a night that will be etched in Indonesian football folklore, 20-year-old sensation Marselino Ferdinan scored a stunning brace to lead his nation to a historic 2-0 victory over Asian powerhouse Saudi Arabia in the third round of 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. The win has reignited Indonesia’s dream of reaching football’s grandest stage for the first time in their history.
The Rise of Marselino Ferdinan
Marselino Ferdinan’s meteoric rise began at the tender age of 18 when his electrifying performances earned him a move to Europe with Belgian side Deinze. However, a lack of first-team opportunities saw him seek a new challenge this summer, landing at English Championship outfit Oxford United.
Despite his undeniable talent, Marselino found himself out of favor with Indonesia coach Shin Tae-yong in recent months, relegated to a bit-part role in the national team setup. Tuesday’s match against Saudi Arabia seemed an unlikely stage for the youngster to prove his worth, but when called upon, he delivered in spectacular fashion.
A Night to Remember
In front of a packed Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta, Marselino Ferdinan produced a performance that will be remembered for generations. His clinical finishing and tireless work rate proved the difference as Indonesia stunned a Saudi Arabian side ranked 70 places above them in the FIFA rankings.
I prayed and hoped that we would play well and get the result we wanted. I’m a natural goalscorer so, when I got the first goal, it was of absolute importance as I felt free from any pressure or burden.
Marselino Ferdinan, Indonesia national team
Marselino’s brace, coupled with a resolute defensive display, saw Indonesia claim their first victory of the third round of Asian qualifiers, propelling them to third in Group C, ahead of Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and China on goal difference.
A Coach’s Masterstroke
Indonesia’s stunning upset can be attributed, in part, to the tactical acumen of coach Shin Tae-yong. The South Korean mastermind, who famously led his home nation to a 2-0 win over Germany at the 2018 World Cup, devised a game plan that nullified Saudi Arabia’s strengths and allowed Indonesia’s young stars to shine.
We followed coach Shin’s instructions and adapted to his tactical changes. What we planned and executed tonight was absolutely perfect.
Marselino Ferdinan
Keeping the Faith
As Indonesia basks in the glory of their historic triumph, Marselino Ferdinan remains grounded, urging fans not to get carried away. With a challenging road ahead, the young striker knows that his team must maintain their focus and belief if they are to achieve their ultimate goal of World Cup qualification.
I just want to say to all the supporters that we should not be carried away. Our focus is not only about tonight. We still have a few more matches to go and will continue to put in our maximum effort.
Marselino Ferdinan
With Japan seemingly uncatchable at the top of Group C, Indonesia finds themselves in a four-way battle for the second automatic qualification spot. While the odds may be stacked against them, Marselino Ferdinan and his teammates have shown that they are capable of defying expectations and writing their own footballing history.
As the journey towards the 2026 FIFA World Cup continues, one thing is certain: Indonesia’s football-loving population will continue to dream, and in Marselino Ferdinan, they have a hero who embodies the spirit and determination of a nation united in its quest for footballing glory.
