Gresik - Madura United advanced to the semifinals of the 2024/2025 AFC Challenge League after defeating Tainan City FC with a score of 3-0 in the second leg of the quarter-finals at the Gelora Joko Samudro Stadium, Gresik, East Java, Thursday night.
The goals in the match were scored by Iran Junior in the 38th minute, Lulinha in the 58th minute and Youssef Ezzejjari in the 84th minute. With this result, Laskar Sape Kerrab won 3-0 on aggregate over Tainan City FC.
Since the beginning of the match, Madura United played aggressively and dominated possession. Several golden opportunities were created in the first half, but the solid defense of Tainan City FC and the brilliant performance of their goalkeeper, Pan Wen-chieh were able to hold back the attacks of the Madura United squad.
The persistence of the Laskar Sape Kerrab players, who continued to attack Tainan City's defense, bore sweet fruit in the 38th minute.
Iran Junior who received a pass from Brayan Angulo immediately shot the ball into Tainan City's goal guarded by Pan Wen-Chieh. The temporary score changed to 1-0, until halftime.
Entering the second half, Madura United increased the intensity of their attacks. The effort paid off in the 59th minute, after Lulinha successfully utilized Iran Junior's pass and conquered the opponent's defense. The score changed to 2-0.
Trailing by two goals, Tainan City FC tried to equalize by increasing the pressure. However, Madura United's defense line managed to dampen every attack launched by the visiting team.
In the 84th minute, Madura United took the lead again through Youssef Ezzejjari's shot after a melee in front of Tainan City's goal. The temporary score changed to 3-0.
Towards the end of the match, Alfredo Vera's team did not reduce the intensity of their attacks and continued to pound Tainan City's defense.
Until the long whistle was blown by Iraqi referee Zaid Thamer Mohammed, the score of 3-0 for Madura United's advantage remained.