Persib Bandung's Tough Mission in ACL II Second Leg After 0-3 Defeat to Ratchaburi
Source: Bandung Indonesian Football Association
Persib Bandung faces a tough test on the Asian stage after a 0-3 defeat to Ratchaburi in the first leg of the Round of 16 of the AFC Champions League (ACL) II at Ratchaburi Stadium, Na Muang, Thailand. Maung Bandung must score many goals in the second leg if they want to advance to the Quarter Finals.
Persib coach Bojan Hodak didn't hide his disappointment with his team's performance, especially in the early phase of the match which became the turning point of the defeat.
"We didn't start the match well and conceded within the first 10 minutes," said Bojan on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.
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The early goal became momentum for Ratchaburi to control the game. Persib was forced to play under pressure and failed to find their usual rhythm.
Entering the second half, Persib's problems became more complex. Bojan assessed that the midfield lost control, making it difficult for his team to build attacks while also being vulnerable to the opponent's quick transitions.
Bojan said Thom Haye and company often failed to win second balls and lacked alertness to the opponent's counter-attacks. The consequences were fatal, as Persib conceded two more goals.
Two goals from Pedro Tana and one goal from Gabriel Mutombo sealed the Thai representative's emphatic 3-0 victory.
Besides technical factors, non-technical conditions also came under scrutiny. The Hot Weather in Na Muang was said to have drained the stamina of the Persib players. In high-tempo matches, small details like physical endurance often make the difference.
Now, Persib's focus is entirely on the second leg in Bandung. To advance to the ACL II quarter-finals, Persib must win by a margin of at least four goals—a target demanding a combination of discipline, effectiveness, and full support from their home fans.
"Now we need to focus over the next seven days for the next match in Bandung. I hope the stadium will be full as usual because it's not easy to play there, and definitely our performance must be better," said Bojan.
Next week's second leg will be decisive: whether Persib can create a magical night in Bandung, or their journey in this season's ACL II must end in the Round of 16.
