Garuda Strikes Down China 1-0 to Keep 2026 World Cup Hopes Alive

JAKARTA — Indonesia reignited its 2026 FIFA World Cup dreams with a crucial 1-0 triumph over China at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium on Thursday night (5 June). In a match marked by drama, high stakes, and unwavering national pride, the Garuda squad delivered a spirited and disciplined performance before a roaring home crowd — including President Prabowo Subianto.

VAR Drama: Ole Romeny’s Ice-Cold Penalty Lifts Indonesia to Victory

The turning point came just before the halftime break. A quick transition saw Ricky Kambuaya make a penetrating run into the Chinese penalty area, where he was brought down by Yang Zexiang. Referee consultation with the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system confirmed the foul, awarding Indonesia a golden opportunity from the spot.

Although defender Jay Idzes was initially seen holding the ball, the responsibility eventually shifted to Ole Romeny, the naturalized striker currently playing for Oxford United in England. Romeny remained composed under pressure and slotted the penalty low into the corner, sending China’s goalkeeper the wrong way. His confident finish gave Indonesia a precious lead and ignited wild celebrations in the stands.

Presidential Support and Defensive Discipline Hold Off Chinese Pressure

With the lead secured, Indonesia shifted focus to maintaining shape and defending as a unit. The second half saw China enjoy extended spells of possession, but Shin Tae-yong’s men remained tactically disciplined. The central defensive pairing of Jay Idzes and Justin Hubner provided composure at the back, while Emil Audero, making his home debut in goal, confidently handled several Chinese efforts.

President Prabowo Subianto, in attendance alongside over 80,000 passionate supporters, witnessed a national team performance defined by grit, organization, and pride. Despite late Chinese pressure, Indonesia held firm to seal a hard-fought and morale-boosting victory.

Group C Standings and What Comes Next

This vital win propels Indonesia into third place in Group C with 12 points. Earlier in the day, Australia edged Japan 1-0 in Perth, taking their tally to 16 points — a figure Indonesia cannot surpass with only one match remaining.

The Garuda squad’s chances of advancing will now partially depend on the outcome of the Saudi Arabia vs. Bahrain clash, which may still influence the final standings and determine who advances to the next qualification round.

Indonesia vs. China: Starting Lineups

Indonesia Starting XI:

Emil Audero; Justin Hubner, Jay Idzes, Rizky Ridho, Calvin Verdonk; Joey Pelupessy, Thom Haye, Ricky Kambuaya; Egy Maulana Vikri, Yakob Sayuri, Ole Romeny.

Substitutes:
Nadeo Argawinata, Mees Hilgers, Kevin Diks, Beckham Putra, Rafael Struick, Ramadhan Sananta, Yance Sayuri, Ernando Ari, Ivar Jenner, Stefano Lilipaly, Dean James, Nathan Tjoe-A-On.

China Starting XI:

Wang Dailei; Zhu Chenjie, Hu Hetao, Yang Zexiang, Han Pengfei; Wang Xinyuan, Xu Haoyang, Sai Erjiniao, Cao Yongjing; Zhang Yuning, Wang Yudong.

Substitutes:
Yan Junling, Tyianas Browning, Wei Zhen, Li Lei, Wei Shihao, Lio Dianzuo, Wang Shiqin, Hung Zhengyu.