Arema FC vs Semen Padang: Singo Edan is wary of Kabau Sirah's quick counterattack strategy

MALANG - Arema FC expressed high vigilance against the pattern of quick counterattack play which is the main strength of Semen Padang. The two teams are scheduled to meet in the continuation of the BRI Super League at the Kanjuruhan Stadium, Malang Regency, on Sunday, February 15.

Arema FC coach Marcos Santos revealed that he had perfected a special tactic to dampen the opponent's strategy which is now under the control of coach Dejan Antonic.

In a pre-match press conference in Malang City, Saturday, February 14, Marcos Santos highlighted Semen Padang's transition ability which is considered very dangerous in this second round.

"Semen Padang is strong when they counterattack through a quick transition (surviving to attack), I have prepared a strategy for that," said Marcos.

He added that the quality of the guest team's game had improved significantly since it was handled by Dejan Antonic. The presence of a number of new players with above-average quality is said to have boosted Semen Padang's collective performance compared to the first round.

Arema FC is aiming for a full point in this home match to record a hattrick or three consecutive wins. Previously, the team nicknamed Singo Edan successfully defeated Persijap Jepara and Persija Jakarta.

Marcos emphasized that the responsibility for scoring goals does not only rest on one or two players, but on the task of all the officials on the field.

"The victory given by God is good for us. So that we can be successful in tomorrow's and future matches," he added.

Optimism also came from Arema FC goalkeeper Adi Satryo. This former PSIS Semarang player is determined to perform consistently in order to maintain the opportunity to return to the Indonesian national team, even though the competition in the goalkeeper position is currently very tight.

"For me, the important thing is to be consistent first. If you want to return to the national team, it's a big hope," said the 24-year-old player.

Regarding the composition of Arema's back line, which often changes, Adi Satryo admitted that he did not bother. He entrusted the decision entirely to the coach and emphasized the importance of teamwork.

"Football is a team game, we help each other," he said closing the interview session.