Maarten Paes and the Indonesia defense put up a resolute display in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Asian qualifier third round match on Tuesday night, denying Group C favorites Australia a way past them as the two sides played out a 0-0 draw at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium in Jakarta.
Indonesia secured their second point of the qualifiers with the draw, having previously held Saudi Arabia, while Australia managed to open their account following a loss to Bahrain on the first matchday.
Indonesia made an early statement, pressing hard in the opening minute and forcing Mathew Ryan into a double save—first from a shot by Sandy Walsh at the edge of the box, followed by a quick rebound attempt from Rafael Struick.
Australia took some time to find their rhythm, only registering their first real opportunity in the 21st minute when Harry Souttar’s close-range effort, following a corner, was punched away by Paes.
After the initial burst of energy from Indonesia, their momentum faded, allowing Australia to gain control. The visitors earned five corner kicks, attempting to capitalize on Souttar’s aerial advantage, but Indonesia’s defense held strong, clearing every set-piece threat.
As the match approached halftime, Australia upped their pace, creating several chances. Nestory Irankunda struck the post, and Craig Goodwin forced a sharp save from Paes.
The second half started scrappily, with neither team able to create clear chances until the 60th minute when Goodwin’s powerful free-kick was confidently caught by Paes.
Graham Arnold, seeking to shift momentum, brought on Adam Taggart for Mitchell Duke in the 66th minute, and Taggart almost made an immediate impact, forcing a reflex save from Paes with a close-range effort on his first touch.
Indonesia struggled to advance past the halfway line as Australia continued to press, with substitute Awer Mabil heading wide from a cross delivered by Samuel Silvera.
In response, Shin Tae-yong introduced defensive reinforcements in Wahyu Prasetyo and Pratama Arhan during the final 10 minutes, ensuring Indonesia held on for another hard-earned point.