### PSM Makassar Triumphs Over CAHN FC in Leg 1 of the 2024/2025 ASEAN Club Championship Semifinals
In a thrilling encounter on a rain-soaked evening at the Andi Mattalatta Stadium, PSM Makassar emerged victorious against CAHN FC in the first leg of the 2024/2025 ASEAN Club Championship semifinals. The home side showcased resilience and tactical prowess, defeating their Vietnamese counterparts with a solid scoreline of 2-1, setting the stage for a dramatic second leg.
#### A Fiery Start
From the kickoff, both teams displayed an eagerness to seize control of the match. PSM Makassar, buoyed by their passionate home fans, pushed forward aggressively. The hosts’ attacking intent bore fruit in the 23rd minute when their star striker, Ramadhan Sananta, found the back of the net with a stunning header off a corner kick. The goal sent the stadium into a frenzy, and PSM took an early lead.
CAHN FC, known for their tactical flexibility and sharp counterattacks, responded swiftly. Their attempts were bolstered by a series of close-range efforts, but PSM’s goalkeeper, Hilman Syah, stood tall, making key saves that denied the visitors an equalizer. The first half ended 1-0 in favor of the home side, setting the tone for what was to come.
#### The Second Half Unfolds
As the second half commenced, CAHN FC increased the intensity in search of a goal, utlizing their speed down the flanks. Their efforts were rewarded in the 68th minute when midfielder Duy Manh unleashed a powerful long-range shot that beat Syah, leveling the score at 1-1. The visitors’ fans erupted, and the match seemed to shift in their favor.
However, PSM Makassar demonstrated their resilience. Just ten minutes later, a brilliant build-up play culminated in a beautifully executed goal by Iqbal M. – a curling shot from the edge of the box that nestled into the bottom corner, restoring the lead for the home side and sending the home crowd into raptures.
#### Tactical Mastery and Solid Defense
With the score at 2-1, the match turned into a tactical battle, with PSM focusing on maintaining possession while CAHN pushed for a second equalizer. The defensive duo of Rudi Sasongko and Ambrizal held firm against repeated incursions from the Vietnamese side, thwarting their advances with well-timed tackles and interceptions.
As the final whistle blew, PSM Makassar celebrated a hard-fought victory but knew that the tie was far from over. With the second leg to be played in Vietnam, PSM’s coach, Bernardo Tavares, emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and discipline in the upcoming clash.
#### Looking Ahead to the Second Leg
The victory not only boosts PSM Makassar’s morale but also provides them with a crucial advantage ahead of the return leg. However, Tavares will have to strategize effectively, as CAHN FC will undoubtedly come out fighting on their home turf. The second leg is set to take place at the Mỹ Đình National Stadium, where CAHN FC will look to overturn the deficit in front of their home fans.
As the stakes continue to rise in this exhilarating ASEAN Club Championship competition, one thing is certain: the second leg promises to be an electrifying encounter. PSM Makassar will aim to cement their place in the finals, while CAHN FC will be determined to mount a comeback and keep their championship dreams alive.
