Persija hasn't thought about Persib yet, Mauricio Souza emphasizes full focus on Persijap Jepara.

Persija Jakarta coach Mauricio Souza emphasized that he has not shifted focus to the El Clasico match against Persib Bandung. Despite the heated duel awaiting next week, the Macan Kemayoran chose to concentrate fully on the upcoming match against Persijap Jepara in the continuation of the BRI Super League.

Persija will play two important matches in a short span. After hosting Persijap Jepara on Saturday, January 3, 2026, Persija awaits Persib Bandung on Sunday, January 11, 2026. 

Souza stressed that the public spotlight on the Persib vs Persija duel does not affect his team's current preparations.

"First, we are not yet focused on the Persib Bandung match. That focus comes tomorrow. So focus for tomorrow," said Souza at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium, Jakarta, Friday, December 2, 2026.

Tight Schedule, Focus Remains Intact

Persija faces this match with limited preparation time as they played against Bhayangkara FC on Monday, December 29, 2025.

Souza acknowledged this condition but still targeted maximum performance.

"But we have analyzed the opponent, we clarified again what's positive to do on the field," said the Brazilian coach.

In the standings, Persija is indeed above Persijap. The Macan Kemayoran occupies third place in the temporary BRI Super League Standings with 32 points. They are far ahead of Persijap, stranded in 17th position.

However, Souza refused to be complacent and will play with full concentration. According to him, playing in the Super Leagye isn't easy.

"So regardless of a team's position in the standings, we must respect the opponent. And tomorrow is no different. Even though their (Persijap's) current position is there in the standings, we must enter with total concentration," said Souza.

The match against Persijap could become Persija's foundation before stepping into the grand duel against Persib. (ANTARA)