Persija Jakarta is preparing to compete against defending champions PSM Makassar in the opening match of Liga 1 2023/2024. The match is scheduled to take place at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (SUGBK) on Monday, July 3 at 19.00 WIB, presenting a significant challenge for Persija. Leading up to this crucial fixture, the Kemayoran Tigers will be strengthened by the presence of only one foreign player.
During a press conference at the Bellezza Hotel in South Jakarta on Sunday, July 2, coach Thomas Doll announced that Persija will heavily rely on local talent for the match against PSM Makassar. With only one foreign player, Ryo Matsuyama, available for selection, the team will need to place trust in its homegrown players to deliver a strong performance on the field.
The absence of two key foreign players, Ondrej Kudela and Marco Simic, further complicates the situation for Persija. Kudela is currently recovering from muscle and left knee injuries, while Simic is facing visa issues. Consequently, the German coach emphasized the need for local players to step up and demonstrate their abilities during the match.
Coach Thomas Doll acknowledged the challenges posed by the limited number of foreign players in the team, attributing it to ongoing recruitment processes. Despite the setbacks, he expressed hope that all foreign player slots will be filled as the Liga 1 2023/2024 season progresses.
Despite facing adversity, Thomas Doll maintains unwavering belief in the team’s ability to compete against PSM Makassar. While acknowledging that Persija may not be the favorites in the match, he emphasized the players’ readiness to give their best on the field and provide an enthralling spectacle for The Jakmania.
“It’s preferable to have all players complete, but I believe that with the existing players, we can put up a strong performance against PSM,” said Doll. “We have a chance to win, and everyone is prepared to display their best efforts, especially in front of Jakmania.”
As Persija Jakarta prepares to kick off the new season, the team will look to its local talent to rise to the occasion and deliver a stellar performance against formidable opponents. The match against PSM Makassar promises to be an exhilarating showdown as both sides vie for an early advantage in Liga 1 2023/2024.
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