Persib vs Persik in the Super League: Beckham Putra is Ready to Return, Sandy Walsh Confident After His Debut

Persib Bandung has received a morale boost ahead of their fifth week BRI Super League 2026/2027 fixture against Persik Kediri. Beckham Putra Nugraha is available to return for Maung Bandung after recovering from Injury, while Sandy Walsh heads into the match with high confidence following his official debut for Persib.

Persib is scheduled to host Persik at Si Jalak Harupat Stadium, Bandung Regency, on Sunday evening, 18 October 2026. This match presents an opportunity for Maung Bandung to carry forward their positive momentum, coming off a 1-0 victory over Cong Viettel FC in the AFC Champions League Two competition.

Beckham and Walsh are returning under different circumstances, but both have the potential to add significant depth to Persib's squad. Beckham is working to reclaim his spot in the starting lineup after missing three consecutive matches, while Walsh is looking to build on his positive performance in his first competitive appearance for the club.

Beckham Putra Fully Recovered, Ready To Return To Action

Beckham Putra has shown positive recovery progress ahead of the clash with Persik Kediri. The 24-year old winger completed the full training session with Persib at Gelora Bandung Lautan Api (GBLA) Stadium training grounds on Friday, 16 October.

During the final training session, Beckham completed additional conditioning drills alongside Persib fitness coach Karlo Reinholz. This program was designed to maintain his physical condition following the injury rehabilitation period.

Beckham revealed that he continued independent training even during the team's scheduled rest days, in order to return to peak fitness as quickly as possible and be able to contribute for Persib in upcoming matches.

"When the team had days off recently, I kept training on my own to build up my condition. I am now 100% recovered, I just hope I can earn the coach's trust," Beckham stated via Persib's official channels.

The number 7 jersey holder had previously missed three Persib matches across all competitions. He was sidelined for the ASEAN Club Championship Shopee Cup fixture against Port FC, the Super League match against Dewa United, and the recent AFC Champions League Two tie against Cong Viettel FC.

Beckham stated he hopes his current fitness will allow him to be included in the coach's match plans. He also noted that the extra preparation time will work in Persib's favour ahead of facing Persik.

"With two full training sessions under our belt, the squad is better prepared. That recent win will also act as good motivation for us," Beckham added.

While he has confirmed he is fully fit, any playing time for Beckham will ultimately be decided by the coaching staff. If selected, his return will provide an extra attacking option on the wings.

So far in the 2026/2027 Super League season, Beckham has only made two appearances for a total of 90 minutes played. The upcoming match against Persik will be an opportunity for him to add to his contributions for the side.

Sandy Walsh Brings Confidence Following Successful Debut

Sandy Walsh has every reason to approach the Persik fixture with optimism. The number 6 player just made his official debut for Persib, playing his part in the 1-0 AFC Champions League Two victory over Cong Viettel FC.

This match marked a major milestone for Walsh, who had spent almost ten weeks sidelined through injury. He completed the full 90 minutes of the match, a very positive outcome after his long rehabilitation period.

Walsh expressed his joy at being able to return to the pitch and mark his debut with a win for Persib. This experience will serve as foundation as he returns to domestic league action.

"It really is an incredible feeling, to come away with the win. For me personally, to play the full 90 minutes after ten weeks out of action? It's an amazing feeling. I'm happy, and I'm already looking ahead to the next match," Walsh told Persib official media.

Alongside speaking about his return to fitness, Walsh also paid tribute to the Persib supporters known as Bobotoh for their constant backing inside the stadium. He stated that the atmosphere created by the fans lifted the entire squad throughout the match.

"Yes, the Bobotoh were absolutely incredible that matchday. I have so much appreciation for them, and all I can say is thank you very much," Walsh commented.

At the same time, Walsh warned his teammates not to become complacent following the win over Cong Viettel FC. He stressed that Persib must maintain their work rate and team cohesion, with the full season still ahead of them.

"But this was just one match. We have to keep fighting, as individuals and as one team, and keep our focus on what comes next," he concluded.

The fixture against Persik will be Persib's next test following their positive result in Asian competition. The victory over Cong Viettel FC will have lifted squad morale, but Maung Bandung will need to maintain this consistency as they return to Super League action.

Beckham's potential return gives the coaching staff extra options in the final third. Meanwhile, Walsh has proven he is capable of playing full matches after his debut, and provides additional depth in defence.