Beat Persebaya, Persija End Winless Streak in Super League
Source: Antara Foto/Bayu Pratama S
Persija Jakarta finally regained their winning rhythm after a dominant performance and convincingly defeated Persebaya Surabaya 3-0 in the continued BRI Super League at Stadion Utama Gelora Bung Karno.
The match spotlight fell on Eksel Runtukahu who scored twice, becoming the key figure behind Macan Kemayoran's resurgence after three winless matches.
From the opening whistle, Persija seized attacking initiative. The home team's high intensity forced Persebaya into defensive pressure.
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However, the visitors' compact backline initially made it difficult for Persija to create clear opportunities.
The breakthrough came in the 15th minute. Milos Raickovic's foul on Eksel Runtukahu in the penalty area prompted the referee to award a penalty after VAR review.
Allano Lima calmly converted the spot-kick to give Persija a 1-0 lead.
Persebaya attempted to respond through counter-attacks, but Persija maintained their advantage until halftime.
After the break, Mauricio Souza's side grew more aggressive. Their dominance produced a second goal in the 54th minute.
Eksel Runtukahu's curling strike beat Persebaya Goalkeeper Andhika Ramadhani.
Eksel showcased his sharpness again in the 76th minute, converting Allano Lima's precise pass to score his brace and Persija's third.
This result ended Persija's negative trend from their last three matches, though it didn't alter their league position.
Persija remains third with 55 points, while Persebaya stays sixth with 42 points.
