Against Bali United, Persija Jakarta Without Marko Simic

Thomas Doll during a press conference session, Saturday, September 23. (photo: Antara)

JAKARTA - Persija Jakarta's mainstay bomber, Marko Simic, was confirmed missing the match against Bali United on Sunday, September 24 evening WIB. Even so, Persija coach Thomas Doll stated that Riko Simanjuntak had joined the squad.

Persija Jakarta will face Bali United in the 13th week of Liga 1 2023/2024 at Patriot Chandrabhaga Stadium at 19.00 WIB. In that match, Simic will not strengthen the Kemayoran Tigers because of the injuries he experienced in the previous match, against Persik Kediri.

The Croatian player is absent from recovering from a calf injury. He even had to fly to Serbia to be able to perform optimally again, Doll also hoped the player could return sooner.

"Simic will not appear (against Bali United) because he has told me that he has arrived in Serbia. He is there for injury recovery," said Thomas Doll during a press conference session, Saturday, September 23.

"I hope the best results (from injury recovery) and hopefully he will return here sooner," he added.

Simic's presence for the Kemayoran Tigers has had quite a good impact. Of the 12 matches the team has played, Simic has appeared in eight matches and contributed three goals.

Even though Simic was absent, good news was conveyed by Thomas Doll about other employees. Riko Simanjuntak, who was previously absent, is certain to have returned.

Riko had a hamstring injury which made her have to pull over for a moment. But against Bali, the player nicknamed Kancil was able to perform because he had joined the team three days earlier.

"The risk of the last three days has been training, but whether Riko will start or not, the decision will be later," said Thomas Doll.

"I hope he doesn't appear to think too much about injury, because he will definitely be in the squad," added the German coach.