Shin Tae-yong Complains About Banten International Stadium as Persija Lose Again and Top Spot Is Threatened

Persija Jakarta once again suffered a bitter result at Banten International Stadium (BIS). Facing Dewa United in a BRI Super League 2026/2027 continuation match on Saturday (31/10/2026), Macan Kemayoran fell 1-2. This defeat was Persija's second at the same stadium this season, after they had also lost 2-3 to Persita Tangerang on 17 October 2026.

Persija coach Shin Tae-yong acknowledged that the poor record at BIS made him reluctant to offer a positive assessment. "We have played here twice this year and lost on both occasions, so you could say I do not have good impressions of this place," he said at a post-match press conference.

The defeat to Dewa United was not solely down to the stadium factor. Shin judged that his own team was the main cause of the failure to earn points. "Basically we caused our own defeat. We failed to convert good chances into goals, and we made too many mistakes in passing the ball," he explained. He also acknowledged Dewa United's superiority and said a thorough evaluation would be carried out.

Despite the defeat, Persija's position at the top of the standings has not changed. Ivan Mamut and his teammates have collected 18 points from eight matches. However, their lead is getting thinner. Dewa United are now close behind with 17 points, while Madura United and Bali United both have 16 points. Competition in the top four is also tightening and positions are vulnerable to shifting in the coming weeks.

Beyond performance issues, Persija are also still dealing with the consequences of a supporter incident. The PSSI Disciplinary Commission (Komdis) imposed a ban on away supporters attending for half a season as well as a Rp30 million fine following clashes between Persija and Persita fans in week 5. This sanction certainly adds to the team's burden, especially in maintaining momentum amid a packed schedule.

"We have played here twice this year and lost on both occasions, so you could say I do not have good impressions of this place." — Shin Tae-yong, Persija Jakarta Coach

For Shin Tae-yong, the poor record at BIS could be a note in itself. However, as a coach, he is required to quickly fix the finishing and passing accuracy that came under scrutiny in the latest defeat. Persija actually dominated possession but lacked sharpness in front of goal. A thorough evaluation will be key to maintaining the top position.

Going forward, Persija will face a stern test with a schedule that is no less challenging. If they keep dropping points, it is not impossible that their position at the top of the standings will be dislodged. Can Macan Kemayoran rise and prove that the defeat at BIS is merely a temporary bad record, not the beginning of a decline?