Arema FC opened their 2026 Indonesian President Cup campaign with a composed 2-0 victory over DPMM FC at a humid Stadion Kanjuruhan on Friday evening, showcasing the attacking fluidity that has made them one of the tournament's early favourites. The win gave the Singo Edan a perfect start in a group-stage encounter that demanded patience against a disciplined Brunei-based side, with goals in either half sealing the result.

Match Overview

Playing in front of a passionate home crowd, Arema FC controlled possession from the first whistle but had to work hard to break down a DPMM side that sat deep and looked to counter through quick transitions. The breakthrough arrived before the interval when a well-worked move down the right flank ended with a clinical finish from close range. After the restart, Arema doubled their lead with a stunning strike from outside the box, giving the home side breathing room and allowing coach Joko Susilo to rotate his squad in the closing stages.

Key Moments and Tactical Story

Arema's 4-3-3 formation created constant width, with wingers hugging the touchline and full-backs pushing high to overload DPMM's five-man midfield. The visitors, managed by former international Adriano Costa, remained organised but struggled to hold the ball for extended periods. Their best chance came in the 63rd minute when a swift counter-attack forced a sharp save from Arema's goalkeeper, who tipped a low drive around the post.

The opening goal highlighted Arema's patience: after nearly 35 minutes of sustained pressure, a short corner routine opened space for central midfielder Gian Zola, whose deflected effort found the net. The second goal was far more spectacular, with substitute Dedik Setiawan curling a left-footed shot into the top corner from 25 metres in the 71st minute.

Standout Players

• Gian Zola – The playmaker dictated tempo throughout and was rewarded with the opening goal, while also completing a match-high 61 passes.
• Dedik Setiawan – Coming off the bench to score the decisive second goal with a moment of individual brilliance.
• Bagas Adi Nugroho – Solid at the back, winning seven aerial duels and making four clearances to keep a clean sheet.

Tournament Context

The Indonesian President Cup serves as a key pre-season platform for Liga 1 clubs, with Arema FC aiming to claim the title in front of their loyal fanbase. This victory puts them top of their group on goal difference after the first round of fixtures. DPMM FC, a regular competitor in regional competitions, will need to recover quickly as they face a tough test in their next group game.

For Arema, the clean sheet will be as pleasing as the goals, especially with the club’s traditional defensive solidity under scrutiny in recent years. The coaching staff will also take confidence from the depth shown by the bench, with two substitutes combining for the second goal.

What's Next

Arema FC will aim to build on this momentum when they face their next group-stage opponent, while DPMM FC will look to regroup and address their lack of creativity in the final third. With the tournament format rewarding positive goal difference in the group stage, Friday's two-goal margin could prove valuable later in the competition.