Reason Persija Plays in Solo Revealed! JIS Not Ready, Mauricio Souza Focuses on 3 Points

Persija Jakarta must "wander" temporarily. The capital's pride club cannot host PSBS Biak at their own home ground, Jakarta International Stadium (JIS), in the upcoming BRI Super League 2025/2026 match on Friday, October 31, 2025. Instead, Macan Kemayoran will play the match at Manahan Stadium, Solo.

Persija coach Mauricio Souza stated he has no issue with this decision. He understands JIS's field is undergoing repairs after being used for a concert by the famous Korean group NCT Dream last September.

"Of course we want to play in Jakarta, at our stadium. But we know there's a renovation process happening inside our stadium in Jakarta, so we can't play there," said Souza in his official statement on Thursday.

The Brazilian coach emphasized his team's main focus is not the match location, but securing three points.

"We know we have to think about three points, and we must take securing three points seriously. Even though we're not playing at home, we have objectives in this competition," he added.

Manahan as the Venue

Despite not playing in the capital, Souza remains grateful Persija received top facilities in Solo. Manahan Stadium was chosen for its quality pitch and adequate infrastructure for a Super League-level match.

"But the management got the best for us, Persija. So we know Solo Stadium is a good stadium, has good grass, and management wants to give us the best," he said.

"We have no choice and we must go in ready to get three points," added Souza.

Manahan isn't unfamiliar to Persija. The 20,000+ capacity stadium has often served as an alternative home for major clubs when their main stadiums were unavailable for other purposes.

For Macan Kemayoran, Solo's atmosphere still feels friendly, especially since the Jakmania supporter base extends to Central Java.

Focus on Points, Not Standings

Persija currently sits second in the temporary 2025/2026 Super League standings with 17 points. They trail leaders Borneo FC by seven points.

However, Souza chooses not to focus too much on the standings. He wants his team to concentrate on performance, not ranking pressure.

"This competition is very long, and it's just starting. The journey Borneo has taken so far has been very good. We're not used to looking at the standings, so we must do our part," he concluded.

The match against PSBS Biak at Manahan Stadium will be a mental test for Persija.
Souza confirmed all players are ready except striker Gustavo Almeida, who is absent due to physical condition.