Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. A crucial penalty save by Indonesia's Maarten Paes marked a 1-1 draw against Saudi Arabia in the third round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers on Friday early morning (6/9/2024).

He foiled a penalty kick by Saudi captain Salem Al Dawsari in the 79th minute, ensuring the match ended level. 

The game, held at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Jeddah, saw Indonesia take an early lead with a goal by Ragnar Oratmangoen in the 19th minute. Saudi Arabia equalized with a strike from Musab Aljuwayr just before halftime.

In the second half, Saudi Arabia intensified their attacks, but Indonesia's defense, led by Paes, held firm. Paes, making his debut for Indonesia, also made crucial saves against Mohammed Kanno and Feras Albrikan in the dying minutes of the match.

The draw earned Indonesia a valuable point in their World Cup qualifying campaign.

(mg/inp/pr/nm)