Persib Still Targets Victory Against Persijap, Hodak May Assist Maung Bandung

Persib Bandung have refused to play conservatively ahead of their decisive fixture against Persijap Jepara for BRI Super League matchweek 34, which will be held at Gelora Bandung Lautan Api Stadium on Saturday 23 May. Even though a single draw would be sufficient to secure the league title, Maung Bandung are still chasing full victory to make history in front of their home supporters.

This determination was confirmed by Persib midfielder Adam Alis. He stated the squad will not grow complacent with their current lead at the top of the provisional Standings. Persib have collected 78 points from 33 matches so far, holding a two point advantage over second-placed Borneo FC.

"What is certain is we will remain humble, because nothing is final yet. We are staying fully focused. Even though technically a draw is enough, we will give everything to go for the win. We want to create history right here in our own city," he said.

Persib only require one point from this final match to lock in their third consecutive Indonesian League title.

Maung Bandung's title prospects opened up dramatically after their last-gasp 2-1 victory over PSM Makassar in matchweek 33, while Borneo FC were held to a draw by Persijap Jepara during the same round.

The win in Parepare stands as one of the most defining moments for Persib this season. Along with breaking their poor away record at PSM's home ground, this result also marked a critical milestone in their title chase.

"It feels unbelievable, we are still proud that we managed to take all three points at PSM's stadium. This was never an easy fixture for Persib. But we pulled through properly, thanks to the hard work of every single person in the squad," he stated.

Amid the optimism ahead of this final match, Persib are facing the potential absence of Marc Klok. The club captain is at risk of missing the title decider after receiving his seventh yellow card during the fixture against PSM Makassar.

Klok expressed disappointment over the referee's decision, and confirmed he will file an official appeal with the League Appeals Committee to be cleared for the decisive match.

"I am upset. I will appeal this yellow card," he said.

"All I did was go for the ball, then they started shouting inappropriate things at me. I really hope this appeal will be approved," he added.

Alongside Klok, assistant coach Igor Tolic has been officially ruled out from the touchline for this match, due to accumulated yellow card suspension.

However, this setback was partially offset by the return of head coach Bojan Hodak, who has now completed his own touchline ban.

"For this final match, Coach Bojan will be back on the touchline with the squad. This time it will be me watching the game from the stands, as I am the one serving the suspension," Igor explained.

Gelora Bandung Lautan Api Stadium is expected to turn into a sea of blue for this weekend's closing fixture. Persib supporters, known as Bobotoh, are hoping the team can conclude the season with a victory and celebrate their championship title on home ground.