Former Persis Solo striker Ferdinand Sinaga was the hero for Persebaya Surabaya as his late goal against his former club completed an incredible comeback from 3-0 down to win 4-3 in Saturday night’s friendly match at the Manahan Stadium.
Hosts Persis dominated the early stages of the match, with Persebaya sitting back and soaking the pressure. Despite missing a few of their chances, Persis’ persistence paid off in the 28th minute after new signing Ramadhan Sananta smashed home a Gavin Kwan Adsit ball into Andhika Ramadhani’s goal to give the Laskar Sambernyawa the lead.
Fellow new signing Moussa Sidibe then initiated a devastating counterattack in the 36th minute, leading to Fernando Rodriguez scoring Persis’ second goal of the night.
The hosts then assumed an even larger command of the game as Sidibe made it 3-0 in the 43rd minute, seemingly assuring Persis certain victory.
While the first half was all about Persis, the Laskar Sambernyawa saw the tables being turned around in the second half as Persebaya went out with all guns blazing.
Muhammad Iqbal capped off a 52nd minute counterattack to reduce the deficit for Persebaya, before the 22-year-old completed his brace eight minutes later with a devastating screamer from range.
With the score now reading 3-2, Persis desperately tried to extend their lead further, only for another Persebaya youngster, Toni Firmansyah, to stab home the equalizer in the 80th minute.
Four minutes later it was Sinaga’s turn to fire home the deathblow, blasting a shot that was deflected by Persis defender Arif Budiyono into his own net.
The roller-coaster friendly was part of Persis’ Fire of Hope event, which was a tribute to the firefighters of the city of Solo. It also doubles as an event that introduces Persis’ squad and jersey for the upcoming 2023/24 season, with the Laskar Sambernyawa set to take on Persebaya again on July 1st at the Manahan in their opening league match.