PSMS Medan secured a hard-fought 2-1 away victory over Persiraja Aceh in an Indonesian Liga 2 match played on January 18, 2026. The win at the Harapan Bangsa Stadium was a vital three points for the visitors in a tense North Sumatran derby. Persiraja Aceh started brightly and were rewarded with an early goal, sending the home fans into raptures. PSMS Medan showed great character to fight back, equalizing just before halftime from a defensive scramble. The second half was a cagey affair, but Medan found a late winner through a clinical finish following a quick breakaway in the 85th minute. This result significantly boosted PSMS Medan's position in the promotion race, while adding pressure on Persiraja Aceh near the bottom of the table. The Persiraja manager lamented his team's inability to hold onto their lead in post-match interviews.