KBRN, Jakarta: Football analyst Estu Santoso predicts that the upcoming Indonesia vs. China match will be intense and fiercely contested, as both teams are under pressure to secure a victory to keep their qualification hopes alive.

The match, part of Group C in the third round of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers, will take place on Thursday, June 5, 2025, at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium in Jakarta.

Estu emphasizes that Indonesia must defeat China to secure a spot in the fourth round. A loss would significantly diminish Indonesia’s chances of advancing.

While China won the first leg, their performance was not dominant, and they conceded goals, highlighting the immense pressure faced by all teams except Japan.

"China carries a heavy burden and must win to keep their qualification hopes alive. Likewise, Indonesia must secure a victory," Estu stated in a dialog with Pro 3 RRI on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, as quoted by rri.co.id.

Estu notes that Bahrain, Indonesia, and China are competing for a single qualification spot, while Australia remains difficult to displace due to their strength and consistency.

At least two teams from the group will advance, and Indonesia must remain realistic. Estu expressed hopes Indonesia can defeat China and aim for a draw against Japan.

With four additional points, Estu believes Indonesia could reach 12 points, improving their chances of qualification. Meanwhile, China, currently at the bottom of the standings, faces a must-win situation.

Estu also highlights Bahrain’s challenging schedule, as they must face Saudi Arabia and China. "If the battle is for third and fourth place, Saudi Arabia is in the safest position, as they already have ten points," he remarked.

Separately, National football analyst Kesit B expresses strong optimism about Indonesia’s chances against China. Playing at home in Gelora Bung Karno Stadium, he believes the Garuda squad is well-prepared to break their poor record against China.

"Given the current situation, there’s no reason Indonesia can’t defeat China. We’re playing at home, and our squad is significantly stronger than before," Kesit stated in an interview with PRO3 RRI on Wednesday, June 4, 2025.

This match is crucial for Indonesia, as a victory would bring them closer to the fourth round while eliminating China from contention. The last time Indonesia defeated China was in 1987 at the King’s Cup in Thailand. However, Kesit warns against overconfidence or underestimating the opponent.

"China is not an exceptional team right now. They’re fairly average. But they still have a chance to qualify, so they will fight relentlessly. That’s what Indonesia must be wary of," he cautioned.

Despite losing four players due to injuries, suspensions, and personal reasons, Kesit believes Indonesia’s squad remains strong.

"Losing four players isn’t a major issue. Their replacements are equally capable. In fact, the inclusion of new names could bring fresh energy and a more aggressive playing style," he concluded. ***