Banteng Jakarta FC Prepares 23 Players for Soekarno Cup 2026

Banteng Jakarta FC is gearing up for the Soekarno Cup 2026 with a determined squad of 23 U-17 players representing DKI Jakarta. The team has undergone an intensive three-month preparation period, marked by a stringent selection and curation process involving various football schools and the PPOP (Pusat Pelatihan Olahraga Pelajar) of the DKI Jakarta Youth and Sports Agency.

Manager Adiyoga Nusyirwan highlighted the team's renewed seriousness in preparation, citing a less-than-satisfactory experience in previous periods. This time, the selection process was more rigorous to build a competitive squad. "We have had a less than ideal experience in the past where we did not prepare the squad seriously. This time, we are fighting against time for three months and of course with the support from PPOP," Adiyoga stated during the jersey launch and player send-off event.

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We have had a less than ideal experience in the past where we did not prepare the squad seriously. This time, we are fighting against time for three months and of course with the support from PPOP.

The team's philosophy emphasizes collective spirit and a family-like culture, rather than reliance on individual players. Head coach Agus Suprianto, a former Persija player who won a trophy in 2001, leads the coaching staff, supported by Coaches Yani and Rizky, along with physiotherapy services. The coaching staff holds certifications and national-level experience.

The Soekarno Cup 2026 will take place in Surabaya, Gresik, and Bangkalan, East Java, from August 10 to 24, featuring 16 teams from various provinces. Banteng Jakarta FC is in Group D, competing against Central Java, Papua, and Jambi. Beyond the championship title, the tournament serves as a platform for identifying and nurturing young talent, with the hope of advancing players to higher-level clubs. Banteng Jakarta FC's target is to deliver their maximum performance, avoiding excessive pressure on the players, as all participating teams are considered to have an equal chance of winning.

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I don't want to aim too high because I feel all the squads competing... have the same chance to win. But from us in Jakarta, specifically, we are targeting our maximum.