In a remarkable display of competitiveness and fan engagement, Persija Jakarta has achieved a significant milestone in the AFC Cup, the second-tier football competition in Asia. On October 4, 2023, Persija Jakarta faced Johor Darul Ta’zim (JDT) of Malaysia during the fifth matchday of Group H at the newly renovated Stadion Utama Gelora Bung Karno (SUGBK) in Jakarta, Indonesia. The home team delivered an impressive performance, dominating the match with a decisive 4-0 victory, with Croatian striker Marko Simic notably scoring all four goals in an outstanding display, thus raising his total to seven goals in the tournament and positioning him at the top of the AFC Cup scoring chart.
Notably, the match not only captivated fans with its exciting play but also established a new attendance record for the AFC Cup. As reported by the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), a remarkable crowd of 60,157 spectators attended, surpassing the previous record set during the 2010 AFC Cup Final between Al Ittihad of Syria and Al Qadsia of Kuwait at Jaber International Stadium. This attendance spike highlights the strong passion Indonesian fans have for football, particularly the committed supporters of Persija Jakarta, known colloquially as Jakmania. Their vibrant displays of choreographed support and tifo have garnered commendations, including special recognition from Datuk Windsor Paul John, the Secretary General of the AFC.
However, the success of this event has not been without its criticisms directed at the Indonesia Football Association (PSSI). Notably, Paul Murphy, a columnist for ESPN and an advocate for Southeast Asian football, expressed on social media that the potential for Indonesian football clubs to excel on the international stage is largely hindered by mismanagement. His assessment suggests that with proper organizational support, the immense enthusiasm displayed by Indonesian fans could be better harnessed, positioning the country’s clubs ahead in the highly competitive Southeast Asian football landscape.
In conclusion, the achievement of Persija Jakarta in breaking the AFC Cup attendance record is a cause for celebration for the club and its dedicated fanbase. This event not only reflects the team’s prowess on the field but also encapsulates the fervor of Indonesian football supporters. While applauding this incredible milestone, it is crucial for governing bodies to recognize and address the underlying management challenges to tap into the full potential of Indonesian football.
Reference:
Asian Football Confederation (AFC), ESPN, and social media publications.
Leave a Reply