Defeat Persipura Jayapura, Arema FC Reach The Top Of The Standings

JAKARTA - Week 21 of Liga 1 2021/2022 has become a sweet moment for Arema FC. Because, Eduardo Almeida's team managed to displace Bhayangkara FC's position at the top of the standings.

Arema's success in pushing up to the top of the standings cannot be separated from the 1-0 victory they won from the match against Persipura Jayapura. Where Singo Edan's single goal was contributed by Carlos Fortes in the 30th minute.

Only managed to score one goal when appearing at the I Wayan Dipta Stadium, Bali on Friday, January 28, Almeida admitted that his team did look bad in that match. But even so, it was not a problem because in the end Arema was able to pick three points and rise to the top position.

"It doesn't matter if we play away from the identity of the team. Even though we only won one goal and it doesn't describe the character of the game (Arema FC), winning is much more important," said Almeida, quoted from Arema FC's official website.

"It's normal in football, for a team to be in that situation (play badly)," the tactician added.

Furthermore, Almeida said the match against Persipura was the moment Arema picked the main target. Therefore, even though Persipura did not manage to score a goal, Almeida still gave respect to the Mutiara Hitam team.

"We managed to get back to the top of the table and compete for the title," he said.

"I give respect and appreciation for what Persipura has shown. They played well," he said.

With the achievement of three points in this match, Arema FC successfully collected 44 points from a total of 21 appearances. While Bhayangkara had to drop one position to second place with a difference of one point after failing to win over Persik Kediri.