Qualifying for League 1, Malut United makes Maluku football history

Jakarta, Beritasatu.com – Malut United from North Maluku succeeded in reducing the fierce resistance of Persiraja Banda Aceh in the match for third place in League 2 for the 2023-2024 season.

This victory allowed Malut United to create history by qualifying for League 1 2024-2025 after falling behind twice. They created history by becoming the first Maluku team to appear on the elite national football stage.

“Thank you to all the players who worked hard, were persistent and never gave up. We dedicate this victory to all the people of Maluku and North Maluku, as well as loyal supporters of Malut United wherever they are. This brings Malut United to League 1,” said Malut United coach Imran Nahumarury in a press conference after the match, Saturday (9/3/2024).

A headed goal by Jose Wilkson in the 115th minute during extra time was the decisive winner at Madya Stadium, Saturday (9/3/2024). The final score of 3-2 was created after 90 minutes of the match ending in a 1-1 draw.

Persiraja took the lead through a penalty executed by Zikri Ferdiansyah (32'). However, Frets Butuan managed to equalize through a penalty kick in the 45th minute.

In the second half, coach Imran Nahumarury made several substitutions, including bringing on Jose Wilkson and Ilham Udin Ramaiyn. However, Persiraja took the lead again through an unexpected goal at the start of extra time.

North Maluku's substitute, Dave Mustaine, managed to break down Persiraja's strong defense with his well-directed kick, replacing Wawan Febrianto. M Fahri, Persiraja goalkeeper, made brilliant saves six times, five of which occurred in the second half.

Substitutes were once again key to Malut's success with Wilkson's header breaking the deadlock in the 115th minute. Persiraja, who had already lost one player due to a second yellow card in the 105th minute, was unable to reply to the goal.

With a final score of 3-2, Malut United managed to reach third place in League 2 2023-2024 and had the right to move up to League 1, following in the steps of the other finalist teams: PSBS Biak and Semen Padang.

Laskar Kie Raha's domination and unyielding spirit was reflected in the 28 attempts on target from North Maluku players. This confirms the dominance of the home team after they drew 0-0 in Langsa, Aceh, the previous Tuesday.

Imran explained that from the start, when he was appointed as coach, he promised to build a team that could elevate North Maluku and Maluku football.

Achmad Zulkifli, Persiraja coach, expressed his appreciation to Malut United for their victory. “Congratulations to Malut United. Football is sometimes like that. When you are ahead, sometimes excessive caution can result in conceding a goal. However, our achievements prove that Persiraja should be taken into account from the start of the competition,” he said.

History was made with the presence of a new club, Malut United FC, in League 2 which managed to advance to League 1 in its first year competing on the Indonesian football stage.