Jakarta

Persib Bandung is set to face Arema FC in the 20th week of the Liga 1 2024/25 season. The Maung Bandung team has a crucial mission: to secure a victory and maintain their position at the top of the Liga 1 standings.

This exciting match will take place at Soeprijadi Stadium in Blitar on Friday, January 24, 2025, at 15:30 WIB. This encounter is vital for Persib to ensure they remain at the top of the temporary standings.

Following a 0-2 defeat to Dewa United, Persib now finds themselves just three points ahead of Persebaya Surabaya and Persija Jakarta, who are closely trailing. Currently, Persib has accumulated 40 points, while both Persebaya and Persija have 37 points each.

If they stumble again, Persebaya and Persija could close the gap or even match Persib’s points in the Liga 1 standings. Therefore, Persib is in dire need of a win to safeguard their position.

Preparation for the clash against Arema has been underway since Monday, January 20. Coach Bojan Hodak is eager to make the most of the limited time left before heading to Blitar.

“We’ve already started to analyze Arema a bit tactically since we only have two training sessions left before we travel,” Bojan Hodak stated, as quoted from Persib’s official website.

Furthermore, Hodak regards Arema as a formidable opponent with quality players. Even though Arema is currently sitting in 10th place in the Liga 1 standings, Hodak believes this does not truly reflect their capabilities.

“They have two excellent strikers (Charles Lokolingoy and Dalberto). Their playmaker (Wiliam Marcilio) and another key player (Pablo Oliveira) are also impressive,” Hodak noted.

“They boast experienced local players, such as their captain at left back (Johan Alfarizie), who is remarkable. Overall, they have a strong team,” he added.

On a positive note for Persib, Arema has recently suffered two consecutive defeats against Dewa United and Borneo FC Samarinda. Additionally, it is worth mentioning that Arema has already lost twice at home this season.

(krs/krs)