In the thrilling match between Arema FC and PSM Makassar in the 22nd week of the BRI Liga 1, the first half ended without a single goal at Stadion Soepriadi in Kota Blitar, East Java on a Monday afternoon. Both teams, positioned in the middle of the standings, exchanged attacks vigorously, yet neither could convert their opportunities into goals.
Arema FC showed their offensive prowess in the 39th minute, as Pablo Oliveira unleashed a powerful shot that was skillfully saved by PSM Makassar’s goalkeeper, Reza Pratama. Just three minutes later, Arema FC threatened again, this time through Dalberto, whose strong shot from the penalty box, following a pass from Lokolingoy, once more hit Akbar Tanjung’s leg.
In a swift counterattack, PSM posed a threat through Haljeta, but as they entered the penalty box, the Arema defenders thwarted the attempt effectively. As the clock struck 45+3, PSM earned a free-kick just a few meters outside the penalty box, but Daisuki Sakai’s execution slightly went over. The first half concluded with a deadlock at 0-0.
### Player Lineups
The starting lineup for Arema FC included Lucas Frigeri as the goalkeeper, Julian Guevara, Choi Bo Kyung, Achmad Maulana Syarif, Johan Alfarizi as the captain, Dendi Santoso, Arkhan Fikri, Pablo Oliveira, Charles Lokolingoy, Dalberto, and Salim Akbar.
On the other side, PSM Makassar fielded M Reza Pratama as the goalkeeper, Alonso Soares, Victor Dethan, Daisuki Sakai, Latyl Farr, Syahrul, M Rizky, M Silva, Akbar Tanjung as the captain, Haljeta, and Balotelli.
The second half promises more excitement and action as both teams strive to break the deadlock and secure a vital victory in the BRI Liga 1 match. Stay tuned for more updates on this enthralling clash between Arema FC and PSM Makassar.
