Fernandes' Header Sends Persebaya to President's Cup Final Against Persib

Persebaya Surabaya has secured a spot in the President's Cup Elite 2026 final after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Arema FC in the semifinal match held at Stadion I Wayan Dipta in Gianyar, Bali.

The decisive goal came in the dying moments of the first half, with Yuran Fernandes heading home a corner kick delivered by Francisco Rivera in the 45th+5 minute. This single goal was enough to propel Persebaya, known as Bajol Ijo, past Arema FC.

Persebaya will now face Persib Bandung in the championship match. Persib had previously secured their place in the final by defeating Persija Jakarta 2-1 in an earlier semifinal encounter at the same venue.

The semifinal match saw an aggressive start from Persebaya, who controlled the initiative early on. Despite several early chances from free kicks, Persebaya couldn't convert until Fernandes' late header. The game was intense, with both teams seeking openings. Arema FC had a goal disallowed for offside, and Persebaya's coach made a tactical substitution in the 27th minute, bringing on Francisco Rivera, which visibly livened up their play.

In the second half, Arema FC attempted to increase their attacking pressure, but their efforts were hampered in the 66th minute when Landis received a straight red card for a foul on Miguel Pereira. Playing with ten men, Arema FC struggled to contain Persebaya, who managed to hold onto their 1-0 lead until the final whistle, confirming their place in the final.