Paulo Ricardo Sets Garudayaksa on a Positive Path in BRI Super League

Garudayaksa FC finally tasted their first win in the BRI Super League 2026/2027 after silencing Arema FC 3-1 at Stadion Pakansari, Bogor, on Saturday (17/10/2026). Center-back Paulo Ricardo was the central figure behind that success, both as the anchor of the defense and as the initiator of attacks from the back line.

The match did not run smoothly for the hosts. Arema FC briefly stunned the home crowd with a quick goal from Matheus Blade just five minutes into the game. However, instead of losing their way, Garudayaksa showed tactical maturity by gradually controlling the tempo and turning the game around.

For Paulo Ricardo, this win was more than just three points; it was proof that a promoted team can compete at the highest level. He also cited patience as the main factor behind the comeback.

"The key for us was to stay calm even after falling behind first. We knew the quality we have, so we kept moving the ball and controlled the game step by step until we finally scored," said the Brazilian defender.

Ricardo's impressive display stemmed from his role as a modern defender who is comfortable on the ball and builds attacks from the defensive area. He rated his team's tactical execution in that match as their best so far this season, especially in terms of communication between the lines.

"We have to keep communicating at all times, from the goalkeeper to the forward line. If we stay compact, good things will come," he stressed.

This win is an oasis for Garudayaksa, who had previously struggled to pick up maximum results. As a newly promoted team, adapting to the harshness of the competition is the main challenge. However, the capital gained from beating a team of Arema FC's caliber is believed to boost the confidence of the entire squad.

Ricardo hopes this fine performance does not stop at one match. He is targeting the positive trend to continue in the coming games, as the team's understanding of the coach's strategy matures.

"As a defender who likes to be on the ball and build attacks from the back, I think today was our best performance in applying that strategy. I hope we can keep maintaining this way of playing and win more matches," he said optimistically.

For Indonesian football fans, Garudayaksa's progress is worth watching. A promoted team capable of producing neat build-up play from the back could be a breath of fresh air amid the dominance of a pragmatic style of play. If they stay consistent, it is not impossible for Garudayaksa to become a dark horse that troubles established teams.

The question now is: can Garudayaksa maintain their momentum and use the win over Arema as a stepping stone toward mid-table, or will they slump again as they did at the start of the season? The answer will become clear in the coming weeks.