From Last Place to Group Winners: Persib's New Mentality in AFC Champions League 2

Persib Bandung enters the AFC Champions League II Round of 16 not merely as participants, but as a team with a revival story. Their group champion status fuels their mentality ahead of the clash against Ratchaburi.

This Thai representative, runner-up of Group F, cannot be underestimated. Yet it's nothing intimidating for Persib either.

Beckham Putra best embodies the current atmosphere in Persib's locker room: confident, focused, and hungry to prove themselves.

"This is a challenge for us. We must use it as motivation, hoping to advance further. Whoever the opponent, we must be ready," stated Beckham as quoted from Persib's official website on Wednesday, December 31, 2025.

Persib progressed to the knockout stage as Group G champions with 13 points from four wins, one draw, and one defeat.

This record contrasts sharply with last season, when Persib failed to advance past the group stage and finished bottom of Group F with five points.

This status change isn't just about Standings—it reflects a shift in mindset and confidence.

"Being group champions naturally gives us better mental strength. Especially since Persib didn't qualify last season, but now we've advanced as group winners," he explained.

The Round of 16 will test whether Persib's transformation holds true at the Asian level.

The first leg will be held at Ratchaburi Stadium, Na Muang, Thailand on February 11, 2025.

Seven days later, Persib will host Ratchaburi at Gelora Bandung Lautan Api Stadium—a potential landmark night for Bobotoh supporters.

Should Persib eliminate Ratchaburi, an even tougher challenge awaits. In the quarterfinals, they'd face the winner of the East Asian heavyweight clash between FC Pohang Steelers and Gamba Osaka.

For Persib, the AFC Champions League II is no longer just international experience. It's their proving ground to demonstrate evolution from domestic powerhouse to serious Asian contender.