Persib Bandung have successfully defended their Liga 1 Indonesia title, clinching the 2024/25 championship after closest rivals Persebaya Surabaya were held to a dramatic 3-3 draw by Persik Kediri on May 5.
The triumph came as little surprise given Persib’s consistency throughout the season. Bojan Hodak’s side displayed resilience and depth, overcoming injuries, suspensions, and fixture congestion while maintaining a high level of performance both home and away. With a squad that remained largely intact from their 2023/24 title-winning campaign, Persib built on an already proven formula—making only minor but effective adjustments to secure back-to-back titles.
The Maung Bandung suffered only three defeats across the campaign—though their most recent loss, a narrow 1-0 setback away to Malut United, came at a crucial moment when all three points would’ve sealed the title. Fortunately, results elsewhere fell in their favor, with both Dewa United and Persebaya Surabaya settling for draws in the same matchweek. That was enough to ensure the Liga 1 trophy would remain in Bandung.
At Persib’s club headquarters, players gathered anxiously to watch the Persik vs. Persebaya clash unfold. Tension peaked when Malik Risaldi put Bajul Ijo 3-1 ahead early in the second half, prompting players like Marc Klok, Gustavo Franca, and Gervane Kastaneer to leave the room, anticipating heartbreak. But then came a twist in the tale.
Ze Valente’s goal for Persik reignited hope and brought Nick Kuipers rushing to call his teammates back. In the 96th minute—virtually the final kick of the game—Ramiro Fergonzi struck the equalizer for Persik. The room erupted in scenes of unfiltered joy. Cheers, hugs, and tears of relief followed. Against all odds, Persib Bandung were crowned Liga 1 champions once again.
Persib’s title run was anchored by a rock-solid defense—the stingiest in the league—and a balanced, efficient attack. While they were the second-highest scoring team, they did so without relying on a single standout scorer. In contrast to Dewa United, who leaned heavily on Alex Martins and his 23 goals, Persib’s attacking output was spread across a fluid and dangerous front three: Ciro Alves, David da Silva, and Tyronne del Pino. This marked a tactical evolution from last season, where the team’s offensive output relied more heavily on the Ciro-David duo.
Key departures ahead of the season—including Stefano Beltrame and Alberto Rodríguez, who joined Mohun Bagan Super Giant—posed early challenges, especially with domestic and continental fixtures coming in rapid succession. Yet Persib adapted with remarkable efficiency. Adam Alis stepped in seamlessly to pair with Klok in midfield, covering for both the departed Beltrame and injured Rachmat Irianto. At the back, 28-year-old Gustavo Franca filled Rodríguez’s void with composure and leadership, helping to cement Persib’s defensive reputation.
Although Persib’s early exit from the AFC Champions League Two was one of the few disappointments of the season, their continental campaign showcased the same fighting spirit that powered their domestic dominance. Most of their defeats in the ACL2 came from narrow margins and moments of misfortune. If Hodak retains the squad’s core, those hard-earned lessons could serve as a springboard for deeper runs in future tournaments.
Looking ahead, Persib face a turning point. Ciro Alves has confirmed his departure at season’s end, and several other veterans may be phased out as the club prepares for a new chapter. With regional powerhouses like Buriram United, Johor Darul Ta’zim, and Lion City Sailors investing in marquee players from top European, South American, and Asian leagues, Persib may feel compelled to follow suit. Bringing in experienced international talent could be the catalyst not just for a Liga 1 three-peat, but also for a serious challenge on the continental stage. With the foundation laid and belief running high, Persib Bandung’s next goal is clear: to become a powerhouse not just in Indonesia, but across Asia.