Maxwell Souza Explodes as Persija Jakarta Heats Up Super League Title Race

Brazilian striker Maxwell Souza delivered a sensational performance by scoring three goals (a hat-trick) that led Persija Jakarta to a 3-1 victory over PSBS Biak in the continuation of the BRI Super League 2025/2026, Friday night at Manahan Stadium, Solo.

This victory marks the third consecutive win for the team nicknamed Macan Kemayoran, simultaneously boosting their position to second place in the provisional standings with 20 points from 10 matches. Persija now trails league leaders Borneo FC by only four points, though Borneo has played only eight matches.

Meanwhile for PSBS Biak, this result deepens their struggles in the relegation zone, with six points from 10 matches.

Maxwell Souza Explodes, Hat-trick Silences Critics

The match had only run for 16 minutes when referee Thoriq Alkatiri pointed to the penalty spot after George Brown fouled Maxwell in the box. Maxwell, as the executioner, perfectly completed his duty by beating goalkeeper Aldo Geraldo Kadu. Persija led 1-0.

The Brazilian striker actually scored a second goal in the 33rd minute, but it was disallowed due to an offside position.

PSBS managed to equalize in the 40th minute. Through a quick counterattack, former Persija player Pablo Andrade finished his move with a powerful strike beyond Andritany Ardhyasa's reach. The first half ended 1-1.

Second Half Becomes Maxwell's Stage

After the break, Persija immediately stepped on the gas. Several golden opportunities were created through Allano De Sousa and Eksel Runtukahu, but PSBS goalkeeper Aldo Kadu performed brilliantly to guard his net.

PSBS's tight defense finally collapsed in the 61st minute. A mistake in PSBS's backline was exploited by Maxwell who intercepted the ball before unleashing a fierce shot into the top left corner of the goal.

Not stopping there, Maxwell closed the night with a third goal late in the match. This time capitalizing on a precise pass from his compatriot Allano De Sousa to secure Persija's 3-1 victory.

This win confirms the positive trend for Mauricio Souza's squad, who are beginning to find their ideal form of play. The combination of a creative midfield and Maxwell's sharpness in front of goal has been the key to Macan Kemayoran's success in their last three matches.

Lineups

Persija Jakarta: Andritany Ardhyasa, Ilham Rio Fahmi, Rizky Ridho, Jordi Amat, Dony Tri Pamungkas, Gustavo Franca, Van Basty Sousa, Fabio Calonego, Allano De Sousa, Eksel Runtukahu, Maxwell
Coach: Mauricio Souza

PSBS Biak: Aldo Geraldo Kadu, Myeong hyeon-Hwang, Sandro Rene, Ruyery Alonso, Claudio Lucas Ferreira, Eduardo Barbosa, George Brown, Damianus Putra, Pablo Andrade, Moses Almendo, Heri Susanto
Coach: Divaldo Alves