Patrick Kluivert's Indonesia faces a challenging path in their quest to reach the 2026 World Cup, following a tough draw that pits them against Saudi Arabia in the final round of Asian qualifying. This marks a significant hurdle for Indonesia, who are aiming to make their first World Cup appearance since 1938.

The draw places Indonesia in a group alongside Saudi Arabia, a team known for its dominant ball possession. Overcoming this challenge will require a pragmatic approach, as emphasized by Kluivert. He prioritizes achieving positive results and securing wins, even if it means sacrificing a consistently attacking style of play.

Indonesia's recent form has been a mix of highs and lows. They secured a historic 2-0 victory over Saudi Arabia in a prior Group C match. However, they also suffered a heavy 6-0 defeat against Japan, a match where Kluivert admitted that Japan's quality was simply "a size too big" for his team. Despite the loss, Kluivert stressed the importance of learning from the experience and focusing on the challenges ahead.

Kluivert's leadership has instilled a sense of belief and determination within the Indonesian squad. He has praised the team's quality and mentality, which has been reflected in their recent performances. Players like Jay Idzes have echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of collectivism and fighting for the nation's pride.

The upcoming World Cup qualifiers are crucial for Indonesia. A positive result against Australia would significantly boost their chances of securing a spot in the finals. With the backing of their passionate home crowd, Indonesia will be aiming for nothing less than victory in these high-stakes encounters.

The Indonesian squad features a blend of experienced players and promising talents. Kluivert has retained several key players while also introducing new faces, demonstrating his willingness to adapt and find the right formula for success. The inclusion of players like Septian Satria Bagaskara highlights Kluivert's eye for talent and his desire to create a competitive squad.

Despite the challenges, Indonesia remains determined to achieve their World Cup dream. Kluivert's pragmatism, combined with the team's collective spirit and the unwavering support of their fans, gives them a fighting chance. As the fourth round of qualifying approaches, Indonesia is ready to embrace the challenge and give their all in pursuit of a historic World Cup appearance.