Mario Lemos Confirms Persijap Ready to Take on Persib, Vows Top Performance

Pelatih Persijap Jepara, Mario Lemos, memberikan instruksi saat sesi latihan tim menjelang laga Liga 1 2025/2026.

Mario Lemos emphasized that Persijap Jepara are fully prepared to face Persib Bandung in the second week of the 2025/2026 Super League. The Portuguese coach assured that his team will deliver their best performance at home, after nearly two months of preseason preparations and holding PSM Makassar to a draw in the opening match, as reported by Suara.

Physical and mental preparation

The Persijap Jepara squad received direct instructions from coach Mario Lemos during training in preparation for the Super League competition.

Coach Mario Lemos stressed that his team is in ideal condition to secure victory.

“We have prepared well. After returning from Makassar, the team immediately resumed training, combined with nearly two months of preseason work. So physically and mentally, we are better prepared for tomorrow’s match,” he said on Sunday evening (August 17, 2025), according to Suara.

The 44-year-old coach believes the long preparation is an important asset for his players to adapt to the high intensity of top-tier competition. He also noted that the locker room atmosphere has become increasingly positive ahead of the big match against the defending champions.

Mental strength and technical evaluation

Duel between Persijap and PSM at Gelora BJ Habibie Stadium, Parepare, on Friday night (August 8, 2025), ended in a 1-1 draw.

The draw against PSM Makassar in the opening match became a valuable boost. Lemos assessed that his players had already shown strong character despite playing away from home.

“That result added motivation for all the players,” he said in a report quoted by Suara.

On the technical side, Persijap also carried out a thorough evaluation. According to Bola.com, Lemos stated that his team is preparing tactical adjustments to anticipate the fast and aggressive style of play that characterizes Persib Bandung.

Fan support as the key factor

Persijap supporters expressed their joy with a convoy along Alun-alun Street in Jepara, Central Java.

Beyond technical factors, the support of thousands of Jepara fans is believed to provide an extra boost of energy.

“We are playing at home, so we must draw energy from the supporters’ backing. That can be an additional strength for the team,” stressed Lemos, as reported by InfoJateng.id.

The atmosphere in Jepara has also been heating up ahead of the match. Supporters of the Laskar Kalinyamat are expected to pack the stadium to cheer for their beloved team.

This situation is also seen as adding pressure for the opponents, especially since Persib arrive as the defending champions. According to Jawa Pos, facing a big team instead serves as extra motivation for Persijap, who are eager to prove their quality as a newly promoted side.

Mario Lemos highlights Jepara’s football enthusiasm

Mario Lemos led a training session with the players on the pitch, watched by supporters from the sidelines.

Lemos also highlighted the strong enthusiasm of the Jepara community for football. He admitted being impressed by the spirit shown by the players, staff, and supporters who consistently give their full support.

“I can really feel the football passion here. The players, staff, and the people of Jepara all show tremendous spirit,” said Lemos.

According to him, while match results are important, the passion shown by the community serves as an extra source of energy that boosts the team’s confidence.

Focus on results and a big surprise at home turf

Although giving respect to Persib, Lemos stressed that the team’s target remains the same: to claim victory at home.

“Our goal is to win, and we will fight for points at our own ground,” quoted byAntara.

As reported by Pikiran Rakyat, the team’s structure is already ideal, the locker room atmosphere is positive, and Persijap are ready to field their best lineup in hopes of springing a surprise in front of their home supporters.