On Thursday, Bahrain will host Indonesia in a pivotal match for both teams as they vie for qualification in the 2026 World Cup Asian qualifiers. Currently sitting third and fourth in Group B of the third round of AFC qualifying, a victory for either side would significantly boost their chances of progressing.
Match Preview
Bahrain Bahrain’s World Cup qualifying campaign has seen them face tough competition, particularly from giants like Japan, Saudi Arabia, and Australia. They made headlines with a surprising 1-0 victory over Australia, which injected some confidence into their campaign. However, this was followed by a disappointing 5-0 defeat at home to Japan, leaving them with a mixed bag of results.
Despite the heavy loss to Japan, Bahrain’s overall form has been solid, with only two defeats in their last nine matches, both against Japan. The team, under the guidance of Dragan Talajic, will be eager to capitalize on their home advantage against Indonesia and aim for at least three points to maintain their momentum in the group.
Bahrain’s performance at home is crucial, as they have upcoming matches against Indonesia and China, which they hope to leverage to secure their spot in the next round.
Indonesia Indonesia has also shown resilience in their qualifying campaign, having lost only one of their recent matches. Their solitary defeat came against Iraq in June, but they responded well, earning draws against strong sides like Saudi Arabia and Australia. The team, managed by Shin Tae-yong, has demonstrated that they can compete at this level, particularly with a commendable defensive display against Australia.
The absence of key players like Justin Hubner could impact Indonesia’s lineup, but they have options in Wahyu Prasetyo and Mees Hilgers, who may step in to strengthen the defense. A solid performance against Bahrain could further solidify their standing in the group and keep their World Cup hopes alive.
Team News
Bahrain
- Bahrain may look to maintain continuity in their lineup despite the heavy defeat to Japan. The coach, Dragan Talajic, could retain many of the players who helped secure the upset against Australia.
- Potential lineup:
Bahrain: Lutfalla; Emmanuel, Baqer, Benadi, Al-Khulasi; Madan, Al-Asfoor, Haram, Marhoon; Al-Aswad, Abduljabbar
Indonesia
- Indonesia’s head coach, Shin Tae-yong, will have to make some adjustments due to Justin Hubner’s absence. Wahyu Prasetyo is a likely replacement, and Mees Hilgers could make his debut.
- Potential lineup:
Indonesia: Paes; Walsh, Ridho, Idzes, Prasetyo, Verdonk; Ferdinan, Tjoe-A-On, Jenner, Oratmangoen; Struick
Prediction
While Bahrain suffered a heavy defeat in their last match, their earlier victory over Australia showcases their potential. Indonesia’s recent performances have been promising, but the away match will test their resilience. Given Bahrain’s home advantage and their previous victory over Australia, they are expected to edge out Indonesia in what is likely to be a closely contested match.
Prediction: Bahrain 2-1 Indonesia
