PSM Makassar Makes History By Qualifying For AFC Cup ASEAN Zone Finals, Tavares: Players Show Outstanding Character

PSM Makassar qualified for the 2022 AFC Cup ASEAN zone final. (Photo: Twitter @AFCCup)

BALI - Indonesian League 1 club, PSM Makassar made history in the AFC Cup. They made it to the final of the ASEAN zone for the first time after winning 2-1 over Kedah Darul Aman FC, Tuesday, August 9.

In that match, PSM goals were scored by Yakob Sayuri in the 31st minute and Yuran Fernandes in the 54th minute. Meanwhile, Kedah's goal was presented by Fayad Zulkifli in the 86th minute.

In this match, PSM played with 10 men since the 62nd minute after Yuran got a red card. In the 90+8 minute, it was Agung Mannan's turn who was sent off by the referee.

"I want to congratulate my players on this victory because playing with nine men is certainly not easy and we made history by reaching the AFC Cup ASEAN Zone Final for the first time," said PSM coach, Bernado Tavares, in the AFC's official website.

Tavares rate, his team started the game very well. Unfortunately, the final finish is still a record. Despite having many chances, the club nicknamed Juku Spell was unable to score the opening goal until the opening 30 minutes.

However, in the second half, PSM's performance improved, including in terms of finishing. "I'm happy with the finish because we scored from set pieces," said Tavares.

"We could have added a third goal but the second red card hampered our chances."

Tavares then appreciated the performance of his team in this match. Despite being outnumbered, Wiljiam Pluim and his friends were able to defend their advantage.

"My players showed great maturity and character in the last minutes of the game and thanks to the fans for giving us the motivation to win the game," said the coach.

PSM Makassar is now waiting for their opponent in the final round. They will face the winner of the match between Viettel FC (Vietnam) and Kuala Lumpur City (Malaysia) which will be held today, Wednesday, August 10.