Persib Ensures Attack Against Semen Padang for First Victory

BANDUNG, KOMPAS - The final standings of last season will not affect the match between Persib Bandung and Semen Padang at the Gelora Bandung Lautan Api Stadium on Saturday (9/8/2025). Persib, which aims to attack for victory, could potentially be defeated at home if they are not prepared.

The match against Semen Padang is the first game for Persib in the 2025/2026 Super League. In the last two matches of the previous season, Persib relatively had no difficulties against Semen Padang. In the first match of the last season, Persib was held to a 1-1 draw. Meanwhile, in the second match, Persib won 4-1.

The final standings of the 2024/2025 season are like night and day. Persib emerged as the champion. Meanwhile, Semen Padang finished in 13th place, just two points away from PSS Sleman, which was relegated.

Despite excelling in statistics and history, Persib Coach Bojan Hodak is reluctant to be complacent. According to him, all opening matches will not be easy. Moreover, Semen Pedang is believed to have undergone significant changes this season.

"Semen Padang is a better team than last season. They have demonstrated that during the preseason," said Hodak in Bandung, Friday (8/8/2025).

During two preseason matches in Malaysia, Semen Padang won 1-0 against Kuala Lumpur City FC. However, prior to that, Semen Padang was defeated by Negeri Sembilan FC with a score of 3-0.

Therefore, although aiming for victory, Hodak urged his players to remain vigilant. He promised an attacking game but did not forget to ask the players to focus on defense to avoid being caught off guard.

"It will be a tough match, but we want the three points," he concluded.

Persib captain Marc Klok said the entire team was excited for the first match. Both veteran and new players can't wait to put on a great show for the Bobotoh, Persib fans.

"There are many new players in the team. However, the preseason has gone well. The cohesion among the players has already been established," said Klok, who spent two weeks training in Thailand.

One of the new players of Persib, Julio Julio Cesar, expressed his eagerness to make his official debut. He is aware that he is expected to replace two strong defenders from last season, Nick Kuipers and Gustavo Franca, and many are looking forward to seeing his best performance this season.

"We are facing significant challenges this season by competing in the Super League and ACL Two. However, my team and I feel confident and believe we will achieve the best this season. I can hardly wait to play the actual matches," Cesar stated.

"I am happy because I now bear a great responsibility by wearing the Persib jersey. I believe good things will come to us," said Cesar, adding.

Semen Padang coach Eduardo Almeida stated that the addition of new players is a significant asset for his team. He is confident that everyone will contribute to the team achieving better results.

The quality of the Semen Padang team this time appears to be more balanced. In defense, defender Angelo Meneses reunites with Almeida. They were once part of the surprising story of Rans Nusantara FC in the Liga 1 competition two seasons ago.

We will work hard. So, we really hope for big support from our supporters.

A lineup of new local players has also gained more recognition. Semen Padang has welcomed Ronaldo Kwateh, who previously played in Turkey, and former Indonesian national team player Irsyad Maulana. Additionally, there are former Persib winger Ferdiansyah and ex-Arema FC player Ripal Wahyudi.

"We will work hard. So, we really hope for great support from the fans," said the Portuguese coach.