Persib Bandung Edges Persatuan Sepakbola Makassar in Tight Liga 1 Encounter

A hard-fought battle at the Stadion Gelora B.J. Habibie saw Persib Bandung claim a vital 2–1 away victory over Persatuan Sepakbola Makassar on May 17, 2026. The win keeps Persib firmly in the hunt for the Liga 1 title, while the home side will rue missed opportunities in a match that swung dramatically in the second half.

Match Overview

The first half was a tense, tactical affair. Persatuan Makassar, known for their aggressive pressing, disrupted Persib’s rhythm early on. However, it was the visitors who struck first. In the 34th minute, a quick counter-attack caught the Makassar defense off guard, and Persib’s Brazilian striker, Ciro, slotted home from close range after a deflected cross.

Makassar responded with renewed energy after the break. Their perseverance paid off in the 58th minute when a corner kick was met by defender Erwin Gutawa, who powered a header past Persib goalkeeper Teja Paku Alam. The stadium erupted as the home side leveled the score.

But Persib showed their championship pedigree. Just ten minutes later, a superb through ball from midfielder Marc Klok released winger Febri Hariyadi, who calmly chipped the ball over the advancing Makassar keeper. That goal proved decisive, as Makassar pushed for an equalizer but were unable to break down a resolute Persib backline.

Key Moments

• 34' – Persib’s opener: Ciro’s clinical finish after a swift counter.
• 58' – Makassar’s equalizer: Erwin Gutawa’s powerful header from a corner.
• 68' – Winning goal: Febri Hariyadi’s delicate chip after Klok’s assist.
• 82' – Missed chance: Makassar’s striker hit the post from a free-kick.

Tactical Analysis

Persib manager Bojan Hodak set his team up to absorb pressure and hit on the break, a tactic that worked perfectly. Makassar dominated possession (58%) but struggled to create clear-cut chances against a disciplined Persib defense. The home side’s high line was exploited twice, and their inability to handle Persib’s transitions proved costly. Makassar’s wingers were kept quiet, forcing them to rely on set pieces—where they did find success—but ultimately not enough.

Standout Players

Febri Hariyadi (Persib): The winger was a constant threat with his dribbling and provided the match-winning moment with a composed finish.

Marc Klok (Persib): The Dutch-born midfielder controlled the tempo and delivered the killer pass for the second goal.

Erwin Gutawa (Makassar): The defender scored his side’s only goal and was solid at the back despite the defeat.

Impact on the Standings

This result lifts Persib Bandung to second place in the Liga 1 table, just two points behind leaders Persija Jakarta. Persatuan Makassar remain mid-table, now seven points adrift of the top four. The loss will be a setback for their hopes of qualifying for Asian competitions next season.