Persib's Eid Break, Adam Alis Reminds Team Not to Get Complacent at Top of Standings

Persib Bandung is taking a break in the middle of their pursuit of the BRI Super League 2025/2026 title. Coach Bojan Hodak has granted his squad a one-week holiday during Hari Raya Idul Fitri 1447 H and the Fifa Series later this month. This decision isn't just about rest, but also a strategy to maintain team balance.

The decision came after a 1-1 Draw against Borneo FC in the postponed Week 21 match at Segiri Stadium, Samarinda. The players will regroup on March 25 to resume preparations for the final phase of the season.

Hodak emphasized this break is not a luxury, but a necessity.

"We are giving a one-week holiday because the league is entering a break period and the players also need rest. Previously, even during breaks, we were still playing in the AFC Champions League Two," said Hodak.

The Croatian coach acknowledged the packed schedule, including their campaign in the Asian competition, had drained his team's energy. 

In that context, physical and Mental Recovery becomes the top priority before entering the nine decisive matches.

"The players are currently feeling very fatigued. So they need time off, to regain their mental and physical condition. To forget about football for a little while," he added.

Although sitting top of the Standings with 58 points, leading Borneo FC by four points and Persija Jakarta by six, Persib doesn't want to lose momentum when they return to action. Hodak hopes his players come back with renewed energy.

"When they return, they will prepare for the final period of this season's league," he hoped.

The next test awaits. The final nine matches towards their "hat-trick" championship ambition will begin on April 5, when Maung Bandung visits Semen Padang's headquarters.

Staying Humble Amid Championship Ambitions

Amid the euphoria of leading the standings, midfielder Adam Alis reminded his teammates not to get trapped in excessive overconfidence.

"Stay humble, stay grateful, keep fighting, because there are still many matches. We must not be too confident. We take it step by step. Hopefully, we can achieve the best result in every match," said Adam.

This message is relevant considering Persib still has nine remaining matches to play, five of which are away games, including a heated duel against Persija Jakarta on May 10.

Adam also stressed the importance of focusing match by match in the title chase, especially in the often high-pressure final stages of the season.

On a personal note, the 32-year-old player also enjoyed the moment after scoring his first goal of the season against his former club, Borneo FC.

"Yes, thank God, happy to be back here and able to score a goal. I also apologize to Borneo. I have respect for the Borneo team," he said.

That goal increased his contribution to four goals and two assists from 26 appearances in all competitions this season, highlighting his increasingly important role in Persib's midfield.

Now, with a brief pause from the competition's hustle, Persib faces the classic challenge: maintaining focus while leading.