Persib Bandung got their 2024 Piala Presiden campaign off to a flyer after they saw off the challenge of PSM Makassar with a routine 2-0 win in Friday’s opening match at the Si Jalak Harupat Stadium.
The Maung Bandung totally dominated the first half, securing a two-goal lead within the initial 45 minutes. The lead was established through a goal by Ciro Alves in the 15th minute and an own goal by Nermin Haljeta in the 42nd minute.
Ciro’s opener was made after receiving a through ball from David da Silva from midfield. The former Persikabo 1973 and Chonburi FC striker found himself unmarked and one-on-one with Hilman Syah, calmly slotting the ball into the net.
Near the end of the first half, reigning Liga 1 Indonesia champions Persib doubled their lead. New signing Nermin mishandled a free kick delivered by Marc Klok, with the Slovenian inadvertently sending the ball into his own net.
Trailing by two goals at halftime, PSM pushed forward from the start of the second half. Victor Dethan took a shot from outside the penalty box in the 48th minute, but it missed the left side of the goal.
In the first 10 minutes of the second half, PSM exerted more pressure on Persib. However, the Maung Bandung did not sit back and also sought to extend their lead.
Febri Hariyadi had a clear shot in the 60th minute after receiving a pass from David, but he hesitated and the chance was lost.
By the 65th minute, Persib substituted Febri and David, bringing in defenders Rezaldi Hehanussa and Victor Igbonefo in a bid to sit on their lead.
Following this change, Edo advanced further up the pitch. In the 71st minute, he had a golden opportunity, skillfully receiving a pass, feinting, and shooting towards the far post, but his effort went wide.
In the 79th minute, PSM posed a threat with Ricky Pratama’s shot from outside the penalty box, which Persib goalkeeper Teja Paku Alam managed to save.
In the final 10 minutes, PSM continued to press hard against Persib’s defense. However, Bojan Hodak’s men successfully thwarted each attack.
The match concluded with a 2-0 victory for Persib, ensuring a bright start to the Piala Presiden for the Liga 1 champions.