Dedi Kusnandar, Pemain Persib — Aksi Dedi Kusnandar di Sesi Latihan Persib Pada Senin, 2 Februari 2026 di Lap. Pendamping Stadion GBLA, Bandung.Foto: VIVAGOAL/Raffy Faraz

Dedi Kusnandar Set for Special Reunion With Sabah FC at Dewata Challenge Series

Dimas Sembada - August 13, 2026

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Persib Bandung veteran midfielder Dedi Kusnandar has welcomed the participation of Malaysian side Sabah FC in the pre-season tournament, the Dewata Challenge Series.

For Dedi Kusnandar, however, the tournament is more than just another pre-season test. It represents an emotional opportunity to reunite with a club that played a part in his professional career.

Sabah FC holds a special place in the career of the midfielder, widely known as Dado. He spent time with the Malaysian club in 2016.

The Jatinangor-born midfielder joined Sabah FC on trial at a time when FIFA sanctions had effectively brought Indonesian football to a standstill and forced domestic competition to be suspended.

Almost a decade later, Dado’s emotional connection with The Rhinos remains strong. Sabah’s participation in the tournament in Bali provides him with an opportunity to reconnect with familiar faces and renew old friendships.

“Of course, I’m happy to reunite with my former club and meet my old friends and members of the Sabah coaching staff again. There are still many people at the club whom I know, so this is also a reunion for me,” Dado said.

Beyond the nostalgia, Dado stressed that Persib’s main focus remains on their preparations and technical development. The tournament provides the defending Liga 1 side with an important opportunity to assess their readiness ahead of the new season.

He believes the pre-season competition will play a crucial role in building the squad’s depth, particularly in developing the mentality of younger players and helping new arrivals adapt more quickly to the team.

“The main point is that, because this is a pre-season tournament, we can take the lessons and experience from it, especially for the younger players. We can also get to know the new players better as we prepare for what will certainly be a busy season ahead,” he concluded.

The Dewata Challenge Series will be held from August 13 to 18, 2026, at Captain I Wayan Dipta Stadium. The tournament features three teams: Bali United, Persib Bandung and Sabah FC.