Persib Bandung vs PSM Makassar: A High-Stakes Classic Duel in the Opening Week
National football stage is set on fire once again as the opening week of the 2026/27 BRI Super League kicks off. One of the most anticipated marquee matchups features host Persib Bandung taking on PSM Makassar in this early encounter.
The match is scheduled to take place at Gelora Bandung Lautan Api (GBLA) Stadium on Sunday, September 6, 2026, at 19:00 WIB. This clash between two historic clubs signals that the intense atmosphere of the BRI Super League will be felt right from week one.
Persib Bandung enter this opening match riding high on confidence. Securing a spot in the AFC Champions League Two group stage serves as valuable momentum as they prepare to face Darije Kalezic’s side.
On the other hand, PSM Makassar arrive in Bandung fully motivated to spoil the host’s opening party. Known as a tough opponent, the Juku Eja squad frequently troubles any team with their disciplined structure and lethal counter-attacks.
The battle in the middle of the park is expected to be the key factor in controlling the tempo. The presence of experienced midfielder Thom Haye for Persib will be put to the test against the discipline and tenacity of PSM’s midfield unit.
Whichever side manages to win the battle in this crucial area will likely dictate possession and craft dangerous chances. Furthermore, squad depth will play a decisive role in a high-intensity match of this caliber.
Persib Bandung boast strong depth across both their starting lineup and bench, enabling smooth tactical adjustments. Meanwhile, collective execution and sharp set-piece delivery will serve as PSM Makassar’s primary weapons to break through the hosts’ defense.
Considering recent form and the backing of the home crowd at GBLA, Persib Bandung hold a slight edge to secure a narrow victory. However, PSM Makassar remain fully capable of pulling off an upset if they can capitalize on any gaps caused by the host team’s physical fatigue.
Head-to-Head Record
Super League | May 17, 2026 | PSM Makassar 1 – 2 Persib Bandung
Super League | Dec 27, 2025 | Persib Bandung 1 – 0 PSM Makassar
Super League | Feb 1, 2025 | Persib Bandung 1 – 0 PSM Makassar
Super League | Sep 11, 2024 | PSM Makassar 0 – 0 Persib Bandung
Piala Presiden | Jul 19, 2024 | Persib Bandung 2 – 0 PSM Makassar
Predicted Lineups
Persib Bandung (4-3-3):
Teja Paku Alam; Eliano Reijnders, Patricio Matricardi, Gabriel Mutombo, Kakang Rudianto; Adam Alis, Thom Haye, Marc Klok; Balsa Sekuli, Uilliam Barros.
PSM Makassar (3-5-2):
Hilmansyah; Aloisio Neto, Nenad Llalic, Victor Luiz; Akbar Tanjung, Resky Fandi, Ananda Raehan, Stefan Jevtoski, Rizky Eka Pratama; Luka Cumic, Luka Bulatovic.
