SEAToday.com, Jakarta - Persebaya Surabaya's Winger Malik Risaldi scored upon returning from injury in a friendly match against Maestro FC this afternoon (5/9) at Gelora 10 Nopember Stadium. The friendly, held during the long FIFA Matchday break, ended with Persebaya winning 8-2.

Malik had not played in any of Persebaya's three Liga 1 matches due to a right foot injury sustained in the Team Launching Game against Persik on August 4.

Although he was considered for the match against Barito Putera, Coach Paul Munster decided to delay his Liga 1 debut with Persebaya because he wasn’t yet 100%.

In the friendly against Maestro FC, Malik played 45 minutes in the first half, with Munster giving reserves time in the second half. Malik scored in the 35th minute, capitalizing on a one-on-one with the goalkeeper after a clever one-two between Francisco Rivera and Bruno Moreira. “It was a precise shot to the far post,” noted observers, as quoted by Persebaya.id.

Coach Paul Munster expressed satisfaction with Malik's performance. "It's great for the team that Malik is back. He's an important player, and he got his goal today," Munster remarked. "Most importantly, there were no adverse reactions to his injury. I only gave him 45 minutes, but he played to his maximum," he added.

Munster praised the Indonesian national team player's swift recovery efforts, citing disciplined strengthening with the physiotherapy team as a key factor. "Step by step for Malik, he's not 100% yet. I'm confident he'll fully recover soon after more training," he explained.

Meanwhile, Malik Risaldi is optimistic about reaching full fitness soon. He’s eager to play and help Persebaya achieve optimal results. "I hope this goal boosts my confidence and helps my preparation for the match against Persita Tangerang," he stated.

Writer: Fariz Ahmad Luthfi