Persib Bandung defeats Persija Jakarta 2-1 to reach Piala Presiden final after 11 years

Persib Bandung has advanced to the Piala Presiden Elite 2026 final, defeating archrivals Persija Jakarta 2-1 in a tense semifinal match. The victory at Kapten I Wayan Dipta Stadium in Gianyar, Bali, ends an 11-year wait for Maung Bandung to reach the final of this pre-season tournament.

Persib established a commanding lead in the first half. William Barros Pereira opened the scoring in the 21st minute, and Balsa Sekulic doubled the advantage six minutes later with a penalty kick. Persija managed to pull one goal back in the 85th minute through substitute Kwon Changhoon, but it was not enough to overcome Persib's lead.

This marks Persib's second appearance in the Piala Presiden final. The club, a favorite among the Bobotoh fanbase, previously won the inaugural edition in 2015, defeating Sriwijaya FC 2-0. The team's lineup for the semifinal included Teja Paku Alam in goal, supported by a defense of Kakang Rudianto, Patricio Matricardi, Gabriel Mutombo, and Ikhwan Ali Tanamal. The midfield featured Luciano Guaycochea, Gakuto Notsuda, Adam Alis, and Luka Menalo, tasked with supplying the striking duo of Pereira and Sekulic.

Despite early pressure from Persib, Persija's defense held firm for the first 10 minutes. Persija had a significant chance in the 15th minute when Witan Sulaeman's shot went wide. Persib then capitalized on their opportunities, with Pereira breaking the deadlock and Sekulic converting a VAR-confirmed handball penalty. Persija's coach, Shin Tae-yong, made several substitutions in the second half to increase attacking intensity, but Persib maintained their pressure, with Barros narrowly missing another chance in the 56th minute.