JAKARTA - The return of football competitions in the midst of a pandemic should be good news that should be celebrated. Unfortunately, this party was tarnished by supporters who committed racist acts.
Not on the field, because the match was held behind closed doors without spectators. But on social media, on the social media accounts of PSM Makassar attacker Patrich Wanggai.
In PSM's 2-0 victory over Persija in the 2021 Menpora Cup at the Kanjuruhan Stadium in Malang last night, netizens left a digital footprint that was not worthy of being imitated. They made racial and harsh comments to Wanggai.
The match took place at a high tempo. The two teams attack each other and try to score a goal. However, PSM could further maximize the opportunities, and scored two goals for the victory of the Rooster team from the East.
The two goals were each scored by Wanggai in first-half injury time and Yakob Sayuri took advantage of the mistake of Persija Jakarta defender Yann Motta Pinto, in the 67th minute.
Before the match, Wanggai admitted that he was confident ahead of the inaugural match of Group B. Wanggai said that he was responding to the condition of the Juku Eja team which only relied on local players in the pre-season event.
"You have to be confident, all players are the same (both local and foreign). What is certain is that all players are ready," he said.
The player from Papua explained, even if without foreign players, if supported by hard work and fighting spirit, then the opportunity to achieve maximum results will remain open.
"The team spirit will lift the team's appearance (against Persija Jakarta)," he explained.
As a player, he said, he also did not have a special burden and target in that match. He will only focus on how to play well and help the team achieve maximum results.
"Yes, play calmly, play well (then) get good results. The point is all players are ready," he explained.
Appearing brilliantly, Wanggai received unfair treatment from netizens. Strictly speaking, PSM is against any form of racism. Through Twitter social media, they uploaded a photo of Wanggai with the words: NO TOLERANCE FOR ACTION OF RACISM. OPPONENT!
We strongly oppose racism for whatever reason and form. Football is entertainment. Football is unifying! #EwakoPSM #KickRacismOut #respect pic.twitter.com/D7w4NF013P
- PSM Makassar (@PSM_Makassar) March 23, 2021
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