Arema's Fourth Final In The President's Cup, Presented For Victims Of The Impact Tragedy

Arema FC stepped into the 2024 President's Cup final after defeating Persis Solo in the semifinals at Manahan Stadium, Wednesday, July 31, 2024, with a score of 2-0.

Singo Edan will meet Borneo FC in the top match which will be held at Manahan Stadium, August 4, 2024.

This is Arema's fourth final during her participation in the President's Cup or throughout the six editions of the pre-season tournament.

At the same time, this year's final match will be Arema's third consecutive edition.

Previously, Arema made it to the final in the 2017, 2019, and 2022 editions. Amazingly, in the three finals they always came out as champions.

Singo Edan also became the most successful team in the President's Cup followed by Persib Bandung (2015) and Persija Jakarta (2018) who both collected one trophy.

In the 2024 President's Cup final, Arema has multiple motivations. They want to return to winning and be presented to the victims of the Kanjuruhan Tragedy.

"Thank God, we were able to win the semifinal match. Once again, we are aiming for the victims of the Kanjuruhan Tragedy. Hopefully they can feel this victory," said Arema Manager, Wiebie Dwi Andriyas.

Meanwhile, Singo Edan has appeared convincing since the 2024 Presidential Cup group phase.

They won Group A with seven points from two wins and one draw.

Arema then beat Persis Solo in the semifinals to make it to the final.

However, coach Joel Cornelli admitted that Singo Edan's trip was not easy. Moreover, in the semifinals they were troubled by the pressure of Persis.

Defender Thales Lira agrees that he is immune to the onslaught of the opponent.

"In the first half, Persis continued to put pressure on our defense. Meanwhile, we lost a lot of balls, causing difficulties," said Thales Lira.

Luckily, Cornelli changed the pattern of play in the second half which made Arema turn around and spread threats.

The scheme also bore fruit with two winning goals that lasted until the game was over.

"In the second half, we pressed back. We managed to play freely and managed to score two important goals. I am very proud of the team's performance today," said Cornelli.