Approaching ACL II Second Leg, Umuh Muchtar: Must Win

Persib manager Umuh Muchtar expressed confidence that The Bandung Maung still has a chance to turn things around when facing Ratchaburi FC in the second leg of the Round of 16 of the AFC Champions League (ACL) II at Gelora Bandung Lautan Api Stadium (GBLA), Bandung, next Wednesday.

Persib is indeed in a tough situation after losing 0-3 in the first leg at Ratchaburi Stadium, Na Muang. Two goals from Pedro Tana and one from Gabriel Mutombo mean the Indonesian representative must overcome a three-goal deficit to keep their hopes alive of advancing to the Quarter Finals.

Despite the daunting challenge, Umuh remains optimistic. He urged the players to give their all and demonstrate a Champion's mentality in front of their home supporters.

"Logically it seems difficult, but Insya Allah (God willing) we will try. It's not impossible for us to score more than three goals in Bandung," said Umuh as quoted from the club's official website.

To advance to the next phase, Persib must win by at least a four-goal margin. This target is no easy feat, but Umuh believes the GBLA atmosphere and full support from loyal Bobotoh supporters can provide extra energy for the squad under Persib's coach.

According to him, the home advantage must be maximized. He also emphasized the importance of disciplined and focused play to avoid conceding, while maintaining attacking intensity from the first minute.

"The expectation is to show higher spirit and energy at home. We must be more careful, avoiding a loss or Draw. We have to win by more than 3-0," concluded Umuh.

The Persib vs Ratchaburi second leg in ACL II is certain to be fiercely contested. This match serves as both a mental test and proof of Persib's capabilities at the Asian level.