Jakarta. Indonesia delivered one of its most convincing performances under coach John Herdman, defeating Oman 3-0 in a FIFA Matchday friendly at Gelora Bung Karno Stadium on Friday to secure its first victory over the Gulf nation in nearly four decades.

The win snapped a drought that had stretched back to 1988 and also avenged Indonesia's 3-1 defeat to Oman in a friendly in 2021.

Herdman deployed an aggressive 3-4-3 formation, instructing his players to press high up the pitch from the opening whistle. The strategy paid off as Indonesia dominated large stretches of the match in front of a packed home crowd.

The hosts created the first clear chance through defender Nathan Tjoe-A-On, whose header from Rizky Ridho's cross was comfortably saved by Omani goalkeeper Ahmed Faraj Alrawahi.

Indonesia broke the deadlock in the 13th minute when Nathan delivered a pinpoint free kick that was met by a powerful header from Justin Hubner, giving the home side a deserved lead.

The Garuda doubled their advantage in the 27th minute after Oman's defense gifted possession to striker Ole Romeny. The forward calmly drove a low shot past Alrawahi to make it 2-0.

Oman had an opportunity to pull one back before halftime after Hubner conceded a penalty in the 38th minute. However, Indonesian goalkeeper Emil Audero produced a crucial save to deny Hatem Sultan Alrushadi from the spot, preserving the two-goal cushion.

Herdman refreshed his side after the break by introducing wing-backs Dony Tri Pamungkas and Calvin Verdonk, a move that quickly paid dividends.

In the 55th minute, Dony initiated an attack before feeding midfielder Ivar Jenner, who burst down the left flank and delivered a cross that Ragnar Oratmangoen converted to put Indonesia firmly in control at 3-0.

Oman responded with several efforts on goal in the closing stages, but Audero produced another string of impressive saves, while the crossbar also denied the visitors.