2024 President's Cup: Left Behind, Persija Jakarta Comeback 2-1 From Arema

Photo archive - Persija Jakarta footballer Riko Simanjuntak celebrates (DOK ANTARA)

JAKARTA - Persija Jakarta managed to win their first victory in the 2024 President's Cup. Facing Arema FC, Persija, who had been left behind by a 2-1 comeback at the end of the match. Persija Jakarta and Arema FC met in the inaugural match of the 2024 Presidential Cup Group B phase at the I Wayan Dipta Stadium, Gianyar on Sunday, July 21. The two decisive points for the victory of the Tigers were donations from Riko Simanjuntak and Gustavo Almeida. Before finally locking up the victory, Persija was pressured by Madura United in the early days of the match. Even Laskar Sapeh Kepep won first through Haudi Abdillah's quick goal in the ninth minute. Haudi took advantage of the chaos in Persija's penalty box after a free kick. This situation then made Madura 1-0 up. Shocked by Madura United's quick goal, Persija tried to get up. The Kemayoran Tigers played aggressively by suppressing Madura United. Persija got a number of chances, but it hasn't ended in goals. Rizky Ridho's free kick in the 34th minute was still sideways on the left side of Madura United's goal. Persija's attack resulted in a goal in the 42nd minute thanks to Riko Simanjuntak's header which was not maintained by the opposing player. The score then drew 1-1 and lasted until halftime. Drawing in the first half, made Persija continue to increase their strength to the Madura United defense in the second half. However, Madura United gave strong resistance to Firza Andika and his friends. Persija turned 2-1 ahead in the 66th minute through Gustavo Almeida. The Madura United vs Persija duel actually went tight because both teams showed strong attack characters. Fights often occur in midfield because Persija apply tight pressing, while Madura United play aggressively with fast balls. However, this situation lasted until normal time. The referee then gave an extension of the time used by Yuda Editya. Getting a through ball but that effort can still be faced by Persija goalkeeper Andritany Ardhiyasa.

Without additional goals in the remaining matches, Persija won 2-1 over Madura United on the inaugural matchday of Group B of the 2024 Presidential Cup.