Saudi Nears 2026 World Cup After 3-2 Win

Saudi Arabia edged Indonesia 3-2 in Jeddah as Saleh Abu Al-Shamat and Firas Al-Buraikan (two goals, one a penalty) replied to two Kevin Diks penalties, and Saudi’s Mohamed Kanno was sent off in stoppage time. A Saudi win against Iraq next Tuesday would guarantee top spot in Group B and a seventh World Cup appearance, while Indonesia will be eliminated if they lose to Iraq. Qatar were held 0-0 by Oman as Group A remains tightly contested. The final AFC qualifying round runs Oct. 8–15 with two groups of three hosted in Saudi Arabia and Qatar; group winners qualify directly and runners-up advance to further playoffs, after six Asian teams had already qualified. Separately, the United Arab Emirates are competing in the Asia & East Asia Pacific ICC Men's T20 World Cup qualifying tournament in Oman (three groups at the Oman Cricket Academy), with the top two from each group progressing to a Super Six and the top three from that phase qualifying for the 2026 T20 World Cup.