In an enthralling match between Home United and Persija Jakarta, the reigning Indonesian champions emerged triumphant with a 3-1 victory, setting the stage for an exhilarating encounter in the second preliminary round against Australia’s Newcastle Jets on February 12.
The visitors made a strong start, taking command of the match and securing an early lead with an own goal by Ho Wai Loon in the ninth minute. Despite this initial setback, Home United’s goalkeeper Rudy Khairullah made crucial saves to keep his team in the game, denying a close effort from Ramdani Lestaluhu in the 23rd minute.
Under the leadership of Ivan Kolev, the Persija squad continued their offensive, almost doubling their lead as Beto Goncalves set Rico Simanjuntak through into the danger area, only to be thwarted by Home United’s vigilant defense. Despite Home United’s Song Ui-young posing a persistent threat, goalkeeper Andritany Ardhiyasa proved equal to the task.
Ultimately, Home United found the breakthrough just before halftime, as Song scored an impressive equalizer two minutes from the interval. The 2018 AFC Cup ASEAN Zonal champions demonstrated relentless attacking play at the start of the second half, but were caught off guard as Persija once again seized the lead.
Simanjuntak, who had been relatively subdued in the second half, delivered an exquisite cross to Alberto Goncalves, who calmly slotted home Persija’s second goal in the 55th minute. Despite their past success against Persija, Home United was unable to contain the Indonesian side as they conceded a third goal in the 84th minute.
Simanjuntak once again played a pivotal role, providing the assist for Marko Simic to secure the decisive goal. With this impressive victory, Persija Jakarta now looks ahead to the next challenge in the second preliminary round.
The thrilling encounter between Home United and Persija Jakarta showcased the determination and skill of both teams, with Persija emerging as the worthy victors of the match. As they prepare to face the Newcastle Jets in the upcoming preliminary round, Persija Jakarta will undoubtedly carry the momentum of their recent success into the next stage of the competition.
Photo: Persija Jakarta
(Source: AFC.com)
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