Bahrain Conceded in the 90+6 Minute, Arab Media Criticizes Bahrain for Karma against the Indonesian National Team

Kapanlagi.com - In the continuation of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers in the Asian zone, a dramatic story unfolded at the Bahrain National Stadium on Wednesday morning (20/11/2024). The Bahrain National Team had to swallow a bitter pill after being held to a 2-2 draw by Australia in the dying seconds of the match.

The equalizing goal scored by Kusini Yengi in the 90+6 minute seemed to be "karma" for Bahrain, which had previously harmed the Indonesian National Team in a nearly similar situation last October. In that controversial match, Bahrain also managed to equalize in the 90+9 minute, leaving Garuda with a sense of frustration.

This incident also caught the attention of Saudi journalist, Fayad, who cleverly mocked Bahrain's bad luck through a tweet on social media. He described the moment as a repetition of the dramatic story experienced by Indonesia, adding flavor to this emotionally charged narrative. As if it never ends, football indeed always holds surprises that can change fate in an instant.

1. Bahrain and Australia: A Match with a Dramatic Ending

An exciting clash between Bahrain and Australia in the continuation of Group C of the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers delivered unforgettable drama. Bahrain initially dominated the game with a 2-1 lead thanks to two quick goals from Mahdi Abduljabbar in the second half.

However, their hopes of securing three points vanished as Australia, who had been trailing, rallied in injury time. Talented young striker, Kusini Yengi, scored the equalizer in the 90+6 minute, making the score 2-2 and thwarting Bahrain's ambitions.

This match proved that every second on the field can determine fate, making tactics and mental resilience crucial in this prestigious competition.

2. Karma After the Controversy of the Bahrain vs Indonesia Match

The match between Bahrain and Australia reminds us of the controversy involving Bahrain when they faced Indonesia last month. In that match, Bahrain managed to equalize in the 90+9 minute, far exceeding the extra time determined by the referee.

Fayad, a journalist from Saudi Arabia, noted this irony by saying, "Last month they (Bahrain) scored in the 90+6 minute against Indonesia, and now they conceded at the same minute by Australia."

This drama sparked anger among Indonesian fans who felt aggrieved by the decision of referee Ahmed Al Kaf, who was deemed to have given excessive extra time. Meanwhile, Bahrain faced negative scrutiny for allegedly wasting time on the field.

3. Bahrain's Position in Group C Becomes More Difficult

The draw against Australia has left Bahrain in a difficult position in the Group C standings. Before that match, they had already dropped to sixth place after the Indonesian national team secured a victory over Saudi Arabia the day before.

The additional point from the match against Australia is not enough to lift Bahrain's position, which desperately needs a win to keep hopes alive for advancing to the next round.

The situation is further complicated by the Bahrain federation's request to move the second leg match against Indonesia, scheduled for March 2025, to a neutral venue. This request has sparked varied reactions from many parties, considering the controversy surrounding their first meeting.

4. Impact for the Indonesian National Team: Unexpected Advantage

The draw between Bahrain and Australia has provided a breath of fresh air for the Indonesian national team, which has now surged to third place in Group C with six points after a convincing 2-0 victory over Saudi Arabia.

The outstanding performance of the Garuda squad, led by young star Marselino Ferdinan with his two goals, demonstrates extraordinary potential in this qualifying round.

With the main rivals sharing points, Indonesia's chances of advancing further look brighter. However, coach Shin Tae-yong continues to emphasize the importance of maintaining focus and not underestimating any opponent, "We must keep working hard and not take anyone lightly," he asserted after the match.

5. Reactions from the Media and Fans in Southeast Asia

This thrilling drama involving Bahrain, Australia, and Indonesia has sparked lively discussions on social media, especially among Southeast Asian fans, particularly in Indonesia, who view this incident as a moment of justice on the green field.

Fayad's tweet mentioning "karma" from Bahrain caught attention, triggering a wave of funny and sarcastic replies from Twitter users. One wrote, "Don't forget injury time, always bring a calculator," adding a touch of humor to the discussion.

This reaction illustrates how Asian football has now managed to capture global attention, not only due to the quality of its play but also because of the drama surrounding it.

(kpl/rmt)