In an intense showdown at Purnawarman Stadium on November 2, Persikad Depok FC shocked the home crowd by securing a 2-1 victory over Bekasi City in Liga 2. The match, pivotal for both teams, highlighted contrasting trajectories within the league as it unfolded with surprising twists and unexpected significance.
The first half saw both teams testing each other's defenses but failing to find the back of the net. Bekasi City, currently sitting in fourth place with 11 points, was coming off a strong performance against Sriwijaya FC just days before. Their confidence seemed palpable, and they were expected to continue their winning streak. Meanwhile, Persikad Depok FC, languishing in ninth with only five points from seven matches, struggled to find form after a dismal run that included a heavy defeat to Garudayaksa.
As I predicted prior to the match, Bekasi City seemed primed for another solid win based on their recent performances. But oh, how wrong I was! They faced an unyielding challenge from Persikad, who were determined to break free from their losing streak.
The breakthrough came in the second half when a player from Persikad found the net in the 55th minute. Details of the goal remained elusive, but its impact was immediate: it stirred life into an otherwise lackluster performance and sent waves of uncertainty through Bekasi City's ranks. With momentum on their side, Persikad struck again in the 79th minute-another unidentified player capitalizing on what must have been some defensive lapses from Bekasi.
Just when it looked like all hope was lost for the home side, they managed to pull one back in the 82nd minute. An uncredited goal displayed their resilience and gave fans a glimmer of hope that they could salvage something from this contest. However, it was merely too little too late.
Adding drama to an already charged atmosphere, a red card issued to a player from Persikad in the 74th minute meant they would have to withstand late pressure from Bekasi down a man. Yet despite being a player short, they held firm against desperate attempts by their opponents.
The final whistle sounded with Persikad Depok FC celebrating a much-needed victory while leaving Bekasi City pondering where it all went wrong. This result shifts them firmly into ninth place while providing much-needed motivation for their upcoming game against Persekat next week.
For Bekasi City, who now sit fourth but are looking over their shoulders as teams eye playoff contention closely behind them-they must quickly analyze what has happened and refocus ahead of their next outing against PSMS Medan if they want to remain competitive.
This match will certainly serve as food for thought moving forward; whether it's about recovering momentum or building upon newfound determination-both teams have critical stakes riding on their next games. For fans witnessing this encounter at Purnawarman Stadium, it offered everything: tension, surprise, and reminders that even in sports predictions can fall flat as quickly as scores can change.