Van Basty Satisfied Despite Slim Win, Persija Close to Top of Table

Persija Jakarta extended their positive streak in week 28 of the BRI Super League 2025/2026. Playing at Maguwoharjo Stadium on Saturday, April 18, 2026, The Kemayoran Tigers successfully defeated PSBS Biak with a narrow 1-0 scoreline.

A quick goal scored by Maxwell Souza in the seventh minute proved decisive in the tightly contested match. This result also extended Persija's winning run after previously defeating Persebaya Surabaya with a convincing 3-0 score.

Persija midfielder, Van Basty Sousa, expressed satisfaction with the three points earned, despite the minimal goal difference.

"But in this match, and in any match, three points are the most important thing, and we managed to get them. Whether you win 10-0 or 1-0, the value is still the same – three points," said Van Basty, as quoted from Persija's official website on Sunday, April 19, 2026.

Despite dominating throughout the match, Van Basty felt the game wasn't easy. He stated that the defensive approach adopted by the team nicknamed the Pacific Storm made it difficult for Persija to add more goals.

"We kept pressing them throughout the match. It became a very difficult game because based on their approach, they came only to defend," he said.

"We knew we should have been able to extend the lead, trying different attacking variations to get out of here with a bigger result," he added.

These additional three points place Persija in third position in the provisional Standings with 58 points. They are still five points behind Borneo FC in second place, and six points behind league leaders Persib Bandung, who are scheduled to play their week 28 match against Dewa United Banten FC on Monday (20/4).

Next, Persija will play another away match against PSIM Yogyakarta on Wednesday (22/4). This match presents an opportunity for Rizky Ridho and his teammates to maintain their winning momentum while continuing to pressure the top of the table.