The match seemed destined for a goalless draw before Kouassi struck in the 71st minute to secure Zhejiang their opening three points.

“A win at home is a positive step and everyone knows how difficult it was for us. This win will certainly give us the confidence we need. We will work to improve and hope that we can continue working hard,” said Kouassi.

“The supporters in the stadium were our 12th man. They were backing us from the start until the end and this only helps us to perform better.”

Persib Bandung head coach Bojan Hodak did not hide his disappointment after his side’s narrow defeat.

“I think we played a good match. Because of individual mistakes, we conceded a goal and in the end we feel disappointed with the final result,” said Hodak. “We had some chances but, unfortunately, we couldn’t score.

“But overall our performance was good and we played much better than the first game against Port. We also still believe in our chances of qualifying for the next phase.”
The result leaves Persib at the bottom of the standings with no points to show ahead of their Matchday Three clash against Singapore’s Lion City Sailors, while Zhejiang meet Thailand’s Port FC.