Kevin Mendoza Returns to Bandung, Hopes Bobotoh Will Back the Philippines at FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026

Philippines national team goalkeeper Kevin Ray Mendoza expressed his enthusiasm ahead of the opening Group B match of the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026 against Vietnam at Si Jalak Harupat Stadium, Soreang, Bandung Regency, on Saturday (26/9/2026) at 19.30 WIB. Returning to the city that was once his home base with Persib Bandung, Mendoza feels confident and hopes to receive support from the Bobotoh, Persib's loyal supporters.

This match is not just an opener for Mendoza. Bandung holds a special place in his heart because he once played for Persib. Now, with a different status as a Philippines national team player, he says he is happy to be back. "It feels really good to be back. It feels like home," Mendoza said.

Although several players could not join, Mendoza considers the Philippines squad still solid. He said the team's preparations have gone well and is confident they can put up fierce resistance against Vietnam. "We have a very good squad this time. Even though we have to lose some players, we are still very strong," he stressed.

Mendoza's confidence also comes from the training sessions he has completed. He is optimistic the Philippines can be competitive. "We have quite good confidence after going through some good training sessions, so we are ready to face Vietnam," Mendoza said.

"I hope they come, but I'm not sure, we'll see, whether we can get support from the Bobotoh. I really hope they can come and support us," Mendoza hoped.

Bobotoh support is a factor Mendoza is hoping for. Although he plays for another country, he hopes his closeness to Bandung will move Persib supporters to attend. "There is a lot of support for me, and hopefully also in the stadium for the Philippines team," he said.

For Indonesia, this match is a test of its own. Si Jalak Harupat Stadium will witness Southeast Asian teams battling it out, and the presence of the Bobotoh could influence the atmosphere of the match. Support for Mendoza and the Philippines may draw both praise and criticism, given that the Bobotoh usually back Persib and the Indonesia national team wholeheartedly. However, this moment can be a chance to show the sportsmanship and friendliness of Indonesian supporters.

The Philippines vs Vietnam match will be in the spotlight, especially for national football fans who want to see the quality of a player who once played in the domestic league. Mendoza is not the only player with an Indonesian background in this tournament, but his decision to play for the Philippines adds an interesting dimension.

Going forward, the result of this match will affect the Philippines' chances in Group B. If Mendoza performs brilliantly, he could become a hero for his country and at the same time prove that Indonesian football development has international competitiveness. Will the Bobotoh answer Mendoza's call? The answer will be seen at the stadium later.