Malanginspirasi.com – Arema FC’s ambitions to secure points in Matchday 32 of the 2024/2025 BRI Liga 1 were dashed after they suffered a crushing 0-3 defeat at the hands of Persik Kediri in front of their home supporters. The match, held at Kanjuruhan Stadium in Malang Regency on Sunday, May 11, 2025, was further marred by the dismissal of Arema’s captain, Johan Ahmad Alfarizi, following a red card incident.
From the opening whistle, both teams showcased aggressive play, exchanging attacks in a high-octane clash.
Arema FC had an early golden opportunity in the first minute through Dalberto’s powerful strike. But Persik’s goalkeeper, Leonardo Navacchio, stood firm to deny the effort.
The deadlock was finally broken in the 25th minute when Ze Valente delivered a brilliant cross that was met by Vava Yagalo’s precise header, leaving Arema’s Lucas Frigeri with no chance to respond.
Despite Arema’s efforts to equalize through chances created by Dedik Setiawan and Dalberto, the scoreline remained 1-0 in favor of the visitors at the end of the first half.
In the second half, Arema attempted to intensify their attack to equalize. However, disaster struck in the 62nd minute when Alfarizi committed a reckless foul on Ze Valente. After reviewing VAR, the referee immediately issued a straight red card, reducing Arema to 10 men.
Persik capitalized on their numerical advantage in the 72nd minute when Juan Fergonzi curled a stunning left-footed shot from outside the penalty area into the back of Arema’s net.
The visitors continued to press, and their dominance paid off once again in the 82nd minute as Ze Valente completed a well-worked move involving Fergonzi to seal a 3-0 victory for Persik Kediri.
The defeat serves as a significant blow to Arema FC, particularly as it marked their first game at Kanjuruhan Stadium following the tragedy 3 years ago.
Currently, Arema sits at 10th place in the league standings with 46 points, facing a challenging path ahead.
