Despite being 'Short-Handed', Persib Bandung Remains Optimistic of Securing a Win Against PSM Makassar.

Persib Bandung are preparing for a critical fixture against PSM Makassar on Matchweek 33 of the 2025/26 Super League, with a mandatory target of taking all three points away from this match.

Set to be hosted at Gelora BJ Habibie Stadium on Sunday evening 17 May 2026 at 19:00 WIB, this match is a vital duel for Maung Bandung as they attempt to lock down this season's league title.

Traveling to face Juku Eja on their home ground will be a major test for the Blue Prince squad. The famously charged atmosphere at Gelora BJ Habibie Stadium and full backing from the home supporters are expected to make this a tightly contested match from the very first minute.

Persib's situation is further less than ideal as they will be without head coach Bojan Hodak, who is ruled out due to accumulated yellow card suspensions. The absence of this Croatian tactician means the coaching team will have to implement adjustments on the touchline.

Alongside Hodak's suspension, Persib will also be missing two key first team players: Federico Barba and Luciano Guaycochea. Both players are also serving cumulative card suspensions that rule them out of this high-stakes fixture.

Despite losing multiple key personnel, Persib assistant coach Igor Tolic confirmed the squad remains cohesive and fully prepared to perform at their best in Parepare.

"Every available player is match ready. We have completed all our training programmes at full intensity, and every squad member understands exactly what is required of them when the match starts," Tolic stated during the pre-match press conference in Parepare on Saturday 16 May 2026.

Tolic explained that the absences within the squad cannot be used as an excuse to lose focus. He reiterated that the entire team is only focused on securing victory to move ever closer to the league championship.

"This is not the time for complaints. Those who cannot join us are not here, but our entire focus is on this one match. We are now so close to bringing huge joy back to the people of Bandung," he stated firmly.

Persib have traveled to Parepare with high motivation, as a victory over PSM Makassar will open an enormous opportunity for them to secure this season's Super League title.

Tolic also confirmed that any player given the chance to take the field will give their absolute maximum to bring home a positive result from Juku Eja's home ground.

"We know exactly what we are fighting for. We have come here to win this league. Every single player that steps onto the pitch tomorrow will give 100% of their ability. We will fight with everything we have, and we hope to return home with victory," he concluded.

This clash between PSM Makassar and Persib Bandung is forecast to be one of the most intense fixtures of Matchweek 33. Beyond being a high-Profile pride match between two historic big clubs, this duel will also likely decide Persib's final path to lifting the 2025/26 Super League trophy.