Ahead of the Persib vs Persija match, Balsa Sekulic cannot wait to experience the atmosphere of this derby.

Persib Bandung is using the extra preparation time to finalise their strategy ahead of the 2026 President's Cup semi-final fixture against Persija, scheduled for Tuesday 4 August 2026. Despite being without two key players, Berginho and Dion, the Maung Bandung squad remains confident of securing the best possible result and advancing to the tournament final.

Persib's new striker Balsa Sekulic confirmed the team has fully utilised the break before the semi-final to recover physical condition and sharpen overall team readiness.

"This extra day we have been given is extremely valuable for rest and proper preparation for this semi-final. It is disappointing that Berginho and Dion will not be available, but we will give everything we have to get the best possible result," he stated.

Optimistic Facing Quality Opposition

Although this is still a pre-season tournament, the Persib squad considers this semi-final to carry great importance. Sekulic acknowledged their opponents have very high quality, but maintained that Persib also have the capability to compete at this level.

"I expect this will be an excellent match. They are a very strong side, but we also have full belief in our own quality. That is why we are confident we can make it through to the final," he added.

This mindset has become a crucial foundation for Persib as they chase qualification for the tournament decider.

Eager To Experience The Persib vs Persija Atmosphere

This semi-final also marks the renewal of the historic domestic derby between Persib Bandung and Persija Jakarta, widely regarded as one of the biggest rivalries in Indonesian football.

Sekulic confirmed he is already aware of the scale of this fixture and is looking forward to experiencing the match atmosphere first hand.

"I have heard this is one of the biggest derbies in Indonesia, and I honestly cannot wait to step out and feel that atmosphere for myself," he said.

This meeting is expected to be another fiercely contested encounter, with both teams set to receive full backing from their respective supporter groups.

Two Goals Provide Confidence Boost

Sekulic's strong performances across the tournament so far have also caught attention, with the forward already netting two goals to build his personal confidence ahead of the semi-final.

Even so, the Montenegrin international stressed that team objectives will always come before individual achievements.

"Of course scoring goals matters for a striker, but just as important is performing well for the group and helping us achieve our common target, which is winning. I have fantastic teammates here, and none of my personal performances would be possible without them," he explained.

Backed by this collective spirit and growing confidence, Persib will aim to overcome Persija and book their place in the 2026 President's Cup final.