Persib Bandung, a club from Indonesia kept the first point in this tournament after tying with Lion City Sailors, a club from Singapore scoring 1-1 in the AFC Champions League Two 2024/25 Group Stage, Group F at Si Jalak Harupat Stadium, Soreang
The match began with intensity as Lion City’s Maxime Lestienne threatened in the opening minute, but his attempt was gathered by Persib goalkeeper Kevin Mendoza. Shortly after, Persib’s Tyronne found the side-netting, signaling a lively start. However, both teams soon settled, with play becoming concentrated in midfield and scoring opportunities scarce.
It wasn’t until the 30th minute that the hosts managed to break through. Persib’s Dimas sent a precise through ball to Ciro Alves on the edge of the box, but the Brazilian’s shot sailed over the crossbar. However, two minutes before halftime, Persib found their lead. Dimas capitalized on a defensive error, sending Tyronne in behind the Lion City defense, and the Spaniard coolly lobbed the ball over goalkeeper Izwan Mahbud from outside the box to make it 1-0.
Lion City responded quickly after the break, leveling the score just four minutes into the second half. Former Australian international Adam Wright headed home from close range, connecting with a well-placed cross by Lestienne, leaving Mendoza with no chance.
Tensions flared soon after, as Persib’s Dimas clashed with Wright inside Lion City’s penalty area. In a moment of frustration, Dimas lashed out at the defender, resulting in a straight red card and reducing Persib to 10 men.
Despite their numerical advantage, Lion City failed to capitalize on the opportunity. Although Song Ui-young came close in the 63rd minute, missing the target, Persib remained resilient. Ciro Alves nearly restored Persib’s lead, but Mahbud was quick to deny him at the near post.
In the final seconds, Lion City’s Bart Ramselaar received a second yellow card, leveling the numbers on the pitch, and the match concluded with both teams sharing the spoils.
The result leaves Persib Bandung looking to build momentum in their next fixture, while Lion City will be keen to improve on their attacking output in the competition.
Credit Photo : AFC
