Borneo FC supporters' backing at GBLA gives extra motivation to Persib to win

Borneo FC arrives in Bandung with their heads held high. Coach Fabio Lefundes stated his Pesut Etam squad is not intimidated facing Persib Bandung in the postponed week 4 BRI Super League match at Gelora Bandung Lautan Api Stadium on Friday night, December 5, 2025.

In a match predicted to be high-tension, Lefundes believes the atmosphere filled with supporters will actually bring positive energy for his team. 

Borneo FC is on a mission to bounce back after last week's 0-1 defeat to Bali United in front of their home crowd.

"When we play away against a team that can fill the stadium, the match feels much more enjoyable to play. I believe the players feel the same way, and I'm sure they share the same mindset," said Lefundes, quoted from the official I.League website on Friday.

No Doubts About Key Players

The Brazilian coach stated he is not worried at all about the home supporters. He has full confidence that Mariano Peralta and his teammates will perform bravely.

According to him, the presence of tens of thousands of Bobotoh could actually be extra motivation for the Borneo FC players.

"When more spectators attend, big players, players accustomed to performing in big matches, feel much more comfortable. So automatically they tend to perform better," Lefundes said.

Persib Supporters Respected, But Not Feared

Despite the guaranteed heated atmosphere at GBLA, Lefundes still gave credit to Persib's supporters. The sold-out match tickets, he said, are a sign of Bandung's great fanaticism.

"At the same time, it's good because it shows Persib supporters want to support their team, want to provide backing, but they also know who they will be facing," he emphasized.

He added that such fanatical support is also a form of respect for the opponent Persib will face.

"So that is also a form of respect for the opponent they will face, and we hope to put on a good match, a good spectacle," he concluded.