Life-or-Death Match Against Iraq is Decisive, Jay Idzes Refuses to Surrender
Source: Antara Photo/HO-PSSI
The Indonesian national team's chance for direct qualification has dwindled after losing to Saudi Arabia in the fourth round of Group B in the 2026 World Cup Asian Zone Qualifiers. However, captain Jay Idzes persists in keeping hope alive, declaring the battle is not over.
Indonesia suffered a dramatic 2-3 defeat against Saudi Arabia in their first Group B fourth-round match at King Abdullah Sport City Stadium, Jeddah, Thursday, October 9, 2025.
This loss leaves the Garuda squad at the bottom of the standings, requiring victory in a do-or-die match against Iraq.
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The pressure intensifies as the only path to keep qualification hopes alive is defeating Iraq on Sunday, October 12, 2025, at the same stadium.
While many doubt Indonesia's chances, Jay Idzes delivered a message brimming with conviction.
“It's not over. Tomorrow we go again, together as one. We are believers, we are Indonesia,” the Sassuolo player posted on his Instagram account on Saturday, October 11, 2026.
This brief statement felt like a battle cry. Idzes spoke not of tactics or pressure, but of self-belief.
The Saudi Arabia match marked Jay Idzes' 15th appearance for Indonesia. He started every single game without substitution.
This time, he again anchored the defense alongside Kevin Diks. Despite conceding three goals against Saudi Arabia, Idzes' individual performance remained exceptional.
Sofascore data shows Idzes recorded 7 clearances, 2 blocked shots, 1 tackle, 1 ground duel won, 5 aerial duels won, 59 touches, 46 passes (83% accuracy), 1 key pass, 3 successful long passes, 1 shot on target, and 1 big chance created.
Jay Idzes Is Not Alone
Unwavering spirit was also shown by Marc Klok, who played the full match as a starter against Saudi Arabia.
Klok returned to the national team for the second time under Patrick Kluivert. This marked the Persib Bandung midfielder's 21st appearance for Garuda since his June 2022 debut.
“The last match's result wasn't as expected, but the battle isn't over,” Klok stated on his Instagram Saturday.
“We keep fighting for tomorrow. We move forward together with heads held high,” he added.
Defeating Iraq is no easy task. They're a strong, experienced team in good form. Yet football always leaves room for miracles.(Antara)
