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Disheartened Indonesian coach Patrick Kluivert mentioned that his team was “heartbroken” following their bid for a spot in next year’s World Cup ending on Saturday, after a close 1-0 defeat to Iraq in Jeddah.

Graham Arnold’s team secured the three points with a goal from Zidane Iqbal in the 76th minute. The defeat, Indonesia’s second consecutive loss following a 3-2 loss to Saudi Arabia on Wednesday, has dashed the country’s chances.

I believe that in the game, we were definitely the stronger team,” said Kluivert. “I’m deeply disappointed with the outcome, and it’s not just me—everyone in the country, the players, and the staff feel the same way.

We put in a lot of effort, competing against Saudi and then, three days later, it was a remarkable recovery to face another challenging match. We played exceptionally well.

I am extremely proud of the players, who displayed their passion and bravery, but unfortunately the outcome once again did not go in our favor despite creating opportunities and playing excellent football. A single moment decided the game. We are heartbroken.

Indonesia aimed to qualify for the World Cup for the first time since gaining independence from the Netherlands in 1945, and their advancement to the fourth round of Asia’s qualifying stages marked the nation’s highest achievement so far.

Nevertheless, the team’s failure to score in open play proved detrimental, as it was primarily composed of players from the country’s Dutch community, with both of Kevin Diks’ goals in the match against Saudi Arabia coming from the penalty area.

We put in a lot of effort as a team, including the medical staff, local staff, players, everyone truly gave their best for this,” said Kluivert. “All the outcomes we experienced, both positive and negative, I believe we developed as individuals and as a team.

The chance to win the World Cup is slipping through your fingers. The heartbreak, not just for me but for the entire nation of Indonesia, is extremely difficult. It’s truly hard.

Kluivert rejected the idea that the team’s inexperience was responsible for their loss against more seasoned rivals.

They aren’t too young,” he stated. “Their performance was incredible; they played like this against Saudi Arabia and Iraq, who are ranked 58th and 59th in the world, while we are at 118th.

As the head coach, I’m really proud of them, if you can display your heart in this way. Unfortunately, the goals aren’t coming even when you create chances and play good football.