Different Meanings of Champion from Persigawa

TANGERANG SELATAN, KOMPAS — For Persigawa, a true champion is not solely measured by titles, but also by the spirit of perseverance in the midst of a storm of doubt. With this principle, Persigawa succeeded in delivering the first defeat and thwarting the championship celebration of Babek Soccer School in the 14th week.

A surprise occurred in the continuation of the U-14 Kompas League at the Kera Sakti Stadium, South Tangerang, Banten, on Sunday (27/4/2025). Babek, the leader of the standings, who only needed a draw to secure the championship title, was defeated by the second-placed team, Persigawa, with a score of 0-2. The champion can only be determined in the final week of the league, next Sunday.

Babek, who arrived with a perfect record of 13 wins from 13 matches, was heavily favored over Persigawa (10 wins and 3 draws). However, this advantage on paper was reversed on the field. Persigawa displayed remarkable composure with a solid defense, taking advantage of the rival team that appeared impatient to celebrate.

Captain of Persigawa Dek Mang Raditya Nata Pamungkas stated that the victory stemmed from the high motivation of the entire squad. "So even though the chance of winning is small, we continue to strive. At least we can defeat the champion (rival). That is our motivation. Therefore, we just played freely, not thinking about anything. Just enjoy it," said the central defender.

That day felt very special for Dek. After the victory, his teammates presented him with a cake outside the stadium. The Persigawa squad celebrated the 15th birthday of their captain, who had just turned a year older last Saturday. "Yes, this victory feels like a gift for myself. I am happy because I could contribute to two goals for the team," said Dek.

The two goals of Persigawa originated from a free kick executed by Dek. The opening goal in the 18th minute was scored from a direct free kick. The second goal in the 49th minute was created by substitute player Attaya Akhtar Fadillah. Attaya struck the ball following a scramble after the captain's free kick.

Persigawa has successfully extended their chances in the championship race. They are in second place with 36 points, trailing Babek (39 points). Babek only needs a draw in the final week to secure the championship. Additionally, Babek remains superior in goal difference (+26) compared to Persigawa (+18).

This means that Persigawa's chances of winning the championship are still very slim. They must achieve a significant victory in the final match and hope that Babek loses. Persigawa's coach, Al Ajri, believes that he will be satisfied with whatever the final result may be. He is proud of the players' efforts, who are relentless and unafraid of the big moments.

"I am pleased that the children can apply the strategies as trained. They have proven that Persigawa can compete with anyone. The key is not to be afraid of the opponent's big name or ranking. If our players are complete every week, the current standings might be different," explained Al.

Unlike Persigawa, the Babek players appeared less composed and tended to rush their actions. This panic was reflected, among other things, in the red card received by defender Muhammad Yusuf Maulana in the second half. Yusuf received two yellow cards for committing serious fouls against opposing players during transition situations.

The Babek squad was also quite reactive in responding to the decision of referee Asep Supriatna. Several players protested to the referee for not being awarded a penalty in the first half. They believed that the ball had touched the hand of a Persigawa player inside the penalty area. However, the referee did not see sufficient foul play in that incident.

The situation in the stadium was briefly tense. One of Babek's supporters shouted in protest against the referee's decision from the stands. Fortunately, Babek's Head Coach Abdul Gofur was able to calm the atmosphere. He urged the supporters to remain calm and not to intimidate the referee with inappropriate words.

Abdul appeared to be dissatisfied several times with the referee's decisions following the incident of the penalty that was not awarded. He also protested, but spoke politely to the assistant referee. According to Abdul, as a coach, he must set a good and professional example for the players to emulate.

"I must exemplify a respectful attitude during matches and towards the match officials. Therefore, if there are players who protest excessively, we will certainly evaluate them after the game. Our goal is that the players are not only focused on the present but also on the future. If their attitude is poor now, it will also be poor in the future," said Abdul.

Regardless of the previous results, Abdul is quite satisfied with his team's performance. He is also still optimistic that Babek will be the champion next week. "Our target has actually been achieved, which is to be in the top three. Now we can aim for the championship and will strive to do our best again in the final match," he concluded.