Persija Jakarta has proven that solutions to break deadlocks do not always come from the front line. When the strikers struggled to penetrate the opponent's defence, it was the defenders who ultimately decided the victory.
Macan Kemayoran's comeback 2-1 win over Persik Kediri at the Jakarta International Stadium (JIS) on Monday, 26 October 2026 became the central discussion on Itsme Podcast featuring football analysts Ronny Pangemanan (Bung Ropan) and Ophan Lamara (Bung Opan). Hosted by Syafira and Pudula, this episode covered Persija's progress under head coach Shin Tae-yong, including their title prospects and urgent weaknesses that require fixing.
Persija fell behind early when Imanol Garcia scored with a header in the 10th minute. Persik's high pressing left the home side unable to build structured play. Multiple chances created by Arlyansyah Abdulmanan and Alexander Jeremejeff also failed to produce a goal before the first half ended.
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Yet Persija did not lose their composure. Entering the second half, Shin Tae-yong introduced Rizky Ridho and Kwon Chang-hoon. This adjustment helped Persija regain control of possession and neutralise the opponent's counter-attack threat.
Denis Kolinger equalised in the 64th minute, heading home Rayhan Hannan's free kick delivery. Five minutes later, Kolinger turned provider, laying off an assist for Rizky Ridho who fired the finish that put Persija ahead. These two goals served as clear proof that defenders can deliver solutions when both the forward and midfield lines hit a deadlock.
Defenders Are Not Only For Defending
Kolinger and Ridho's willingness to push forward and support attacking play was one of the most striking elements of this Persija victory. In modern Football, defenders are no longer tasked solely with protecting the backline: they must also read match momentum, exploit open space, and pose threats especially during set piece situations.
This result also demonstrates the value of patience when executing a game plan. Despite conceding first, Persija kept probing for openings until they found the turning point to overturn the match.
This lesson carried extra weight following Persija's 2-3 defeat to Persita Tangerang on 17 October, which ended Macan Kemayoran's four-match winning run. Persija must draw lessons from that loss, particularly regarding attacking efficiency and anticipating opposition threats.
Against Persik by contrast, Persija showed their ability to rally from difficult match situations. These two back-to-back fixtures serve as a reminder that any title-contending side must maintain consistency while also adapting quickly to in-game circumstances.
Top Of The Table Is Not The Finish Line
The victory over Persik brought Persija to 18 points, strengthening their hold on top spot in the provisional BRI Super League 2026/2027 Standings. This position however brings heavy expectations. Under Shin Tae-yong, Persija are required not just to collect wins, but to sustain this standard of performance across the full season.
One immediate area for improvement remains the defence. Persija have conceded in each of their last three matches. While goals from defenders are a welcome bonus, defensive solidity must remain the core priority to restrict clear opportunities for opponents.
Squad rotation consistency also requires review. While lineup changes have occasionally delivered positive impacts, they have not reliably produced balanced team play. Shin Tae-yong must ensure substitute players are able to maintain match intensity and tactical discipline when introduced.
The willingness to give playing opportunities to young local players is a strong foundation for squad regeneration. However these chances must be paired with structured development and consistent performance standards. Player physical fitness, stamina and motivation will also need to be protected right until the final minute of every fixture.
The win over Persik proved Persija have multiple routes to secure positive results. The defensive line can step up as match winners when the forward line cannot find a way through.
For Shin Tae-yong and Macan Kemayoran, the real test will be converting this positive momentum into sustained consistency. After all, title chances are not decided only by the ability to fight back from setbacks - they depend on defensive reliability, sharp tactical decisions, and the team's endurance over the entire length of the competition.
