Persikad Depok Women Fall in IWL Opener as Isabelle Nottet Points to Lack of Attacking Creativity

Persikad Depok Women had to accept a bitter reality in the first week of the 2026/2027 Indonesia Women's League (IWL). Facing Dewa United Women at Stadion Madya, Jakarta, on Sunday (18/10/2026), the team coached by this manager fell 0-1 due to a header from Zahra Musdalifah. The narrow defeat is an important note for the debutant squad that is still building its playing identity.

Despite the loss, the match held its own story for two young Persikad players, Jazlyn Kayla Firyal and Isabelle Nottet. For both, this official competition is their first professional stage in the national women's football scene. Jazlyn, a defender entrusted with guarding the back line, said she was enthusiastic about gaining more playing time and learning directly from senior players.

"Until the final whistle, we tried to keep working hard and stay compact. But luck was not on our side. I hope in the future I can give my best for the team," Jazlyn said after the match, as quoted by Bola.com. She added that the match gave her a valuable lesson about the importance of understanding each other's characters on the pitch.

Persikad's key midfielder, Isabelle Nottet, sees the running of IWL 2026/27 as a positive milestone for the development of Indonesian women's football. "I think this league is very good. Finally we have an official competition for women's football," said the diaspora player of the Indonesia Women's National Team. She acknowledged that Dewa United was not an easy opponent, but judged that her team played well throughout the match.

According to Isabelle, the defeat was more due to the luck factor. Persikad actually had a golden opportunity through a penalty, but failed to make the most of it. Meanwhile, Dewa United was able to turn one chance into a goal. Although disappointed, she still appreciated the hard work of her teammates who fought hard until the end.

"We were just unlucky. Going forward, we have to be braver and more creative in building attacks so we can create more chances," Isabelle said.

Isabelle stressed the importance of collectivity in attack. According to her, goals and wins will come if the team can create chances together. She is confident that as the competition progresses, Persikad will grow and develop into a more solid team.

The next test is already waiting. Persikad Depok Women are scheduled to face Persija Women at Stadion Patriot Candrabhaga, Bekasi, on Sunday (25/10/2026). This match will prove whether the lessons from the opening defeat can be translated into better performance. Isabelle called the match against Persija a new beginning, and she believes her team will keep developing.

For Persikad, the defeat in the opening match is not the end of everything. Rather, this moment reflects that the IWL 2026/27 competition will be tight. With a spirit of learning and tactical improvement, especially in building attacks, Persikad has a chance to bounce back. The Indonesian women's football public is also waiting to see whether this team can answer the challenge in the next matches.