Persija Jakarta Sets Sights on Top Spot, Challenging Persib Bandung’s Lead
In a shocking turn of events, Persebaya Surabaya faced a bitter defeat in the 19th week of the 2024/25 Liga 1 season. The team, led by coach Paul Munster, suffered a humiliating 0-2 loss at home against Malut United at Stadion Gelora Bung Tomo in Surabaya, East Java, on Friday (17/1/2025) evening.
The two goals from the visiting team came from Junior Brandao in the 73rd minute and an own goal by Ardi Idrus in the 82nd minute. This marks Bajol Ijo’s – Persebaya Surabaya’s nickname, third consecutive loss after being defeated 0-2 by Bali United in the 17th week and trounced by PSS Sleman 3-1 in the previous week.
With this defeat, Persebaya’s second place in the temporary standings is now under threat of being overtaken by Persija Jakarta. Persebaya currently sits below Persib Bandung in second place, with 37 points from 19 matches – 11 wins, four draws, and four losses.
Meanwhile, Persija Jakarta, in third place, has accumulated 34 points from 18 games. The Macan Kemayoran squad will face Persita Tangerang in the 19th week on Sunday (19/1/2025) at Jakarta International Stadium (JIS).
Persija has a strong chance of winning this match as they will be playing in front of their home crowd, riding a positive streak of three unbeaten matches. A victory this weekend could see them surpass Persebaya Surabaya and inch closer to Persib Bandung.
On the other hand, Persib Bandung leads the standings with 40 points from 18 matches, maintaining an impressive record of 11 wins and seven draws without a single loss. The team, under the guidance of Bojan Hodak, will take on Dewa United in the 19th week match scheduled for tonight at 19.00 WIB.
This unexpected turn of events has set the stage for a thrilling battle for the top spot, with Persija Jakarta aiming to dethrone Persib Bandung and Persebaya Surabaya in hot pursuit. As the race heats up, football fans can expect an exciting showdown in the coming weeks. Stay tuned for more updates on this gripping Liga 1 season!
