Gladbach Players Experience Mixed Fortunes in World Cup Qualifying
Jeddah, Saudi Arabia – Kevin Diks’s hopes of representing Indonesia at the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico were dashed Thursday following a heartbreaking 1-0 defeat to Iraq, while Gladbach striker Haris Tabaković boosted his nation’s qualification chances wiht a goal for Bosnia-Herzegovina. Elsewhere, Grant-Leon Ranos saw limited action as Armenia fell to Hungary.
The 29-year-old Diks, a Dutch-born defender who has been a key player for Indonesia for the past year, played the full 90 minutes in Jeddah as his team succumbed to a late goal from Zidane iqbal in the 76th minute. The loss effectively eliminates Indonesia from contention for second place in their qualifying group,requiring a win to maintain their position.Following the match, Diks was seen consoling his dejected teammates.
In stark contrast, Tabaković, 31, enjoyed a successful outing for Bosnia-herzegovina, scoring the second goal in a dominant 4-1 victory over Malta. The goal brings renewed optimism to Bosnia’s qualifying campaign, leaving them within striking distance of group leaders Austria, though still trailing by several points with six matches played.
Meanwhile, Ranos, 22, made a brief appearance off the bench for Armenia, entering the game in the 79th minute of their 2-0 loss to hungary. Armenia currently occupies the third position in their group, just one point away from a playoff spot, making their upcoming match against Ireland on Tuesday at 20:45 crucial.
