Garudayaksa Dramatic Champion, Widodo Cahyono Putro Had Predicted Penalty Shootout

Garudayaksa emerged as Champion of the Pegadaian Championship 2025/2026 after defeating PSS Sleman in a penalty shootout drama at Maguwoharjo Stadium, Sleman, Yogyakarta, Saturday, 9 May 2026.

The final match was fiercely contested from the opening minutes. Both teams drew 2-2 until extra time, forcing the match to be decided by penalties. In that decisive moment, Garudayaksa won 4-3.

Garudayaksa coach Widodo Cahyono Putro revealed that thorough preparation was a key factor behind his team's success in winning the title. He had even predicted the final would be tight and go to penalties.

"I personally predicted that this final match wouldn't be easy. And that it would even go to penalties. That's why every training session since I arrived, I practiced penalties afterwards. I took penalty kicks myself," said Widodo during the post-match press conference at Maguwoharjo Stadium.

During the penalty shootout, Garudayaksa faced pressure after their first taker, Everton, failed his duty as his shot sailed high.

However, after that, four Garudayaksa executioners performed their duties well. On the other hand, two PSS Sleman takers, Kevin Gomes and Gustavo Tocantins, failed to score after being saved by Garudayaksa Goalkeeper Yoewanto Beny.

"It was proven earlier that the players enjoyed taking the penalties. So they were prepared," he added.

Widodo also admitted he greatly enjoyed the atmosphere of the final. According to him, the result isn't the only important thing in Football, as the value of brotherhood must also be maintained.

"Of course we are very happy. But we also share this with PSS, we are champions together. I think that's because the most important thing in football isn't winning or losing, but us becoming brothers," said the 55-year-old coach.

"Because wherever we build football, there is brotherhood. So that our football can progress further. Hopefully Garudayaksa and PSS can develop even better in the future," he added.

Regarding the team's plans for next season, Widodo stated he would still discuss it with Garudayaksa management. He couldn't yet confirm the squad composition to be retained for next season's Super League.

"So I don't know about the future yet. Regarding the foundation, well, that will be up to management. How we continue, we'll discuss it again later," said the coach, who has previously managed Bali United, Bhayangkara FC, and Arema FC.