Persib Bandung Qualify for 2025/2026 AFC Champions League Two Group Stage, Could Face Asia’s Top Clubs

According to the official website Persib.co.id, Persib Bandung have secured their place in the 2025/2026 AFC Champions League Two (ACL 2) group stage after a 2-1 victory over Manila Digger in the play-off match at Gelora Bandung Lautan Api Stadium (GBLA) on Wednesday (13/8/2025).

Maung Bandung’s first goal came in the 38th minute through an own goal by Manila Digger defender Michael Cangco Asong, who misjudged a cross. The lead was then doubled by Brazilian striker Uilliam Barros with a clinical finish in the second half. The visitors managed to pull one back via Modou Joof, but the score remained 2-1 until the final whistle — a golden ticket for Persib to step onto a bigger Asian stage.

Officially Into the ACL 2 Group Stage

With this win, Persib join 23 other top Asian clubs in the ACL 2 competition. The tournament format divides participants into two regions — West and East — with 12 teams in each. Persib will represent the East Region, known for its fierce competition featuring top sides from Japan, South Korea, Thailand, China, and Australia.

Persib in Pot 4 for the Group Draw

Based on the club coefficient ranking, Persib have been placed in Pot 4 for the group stage draw, which will take place on Friday (15/8/2025). This means they could face tough opponents from higher pots, including Asian giants such as Gamba Osaka, Pohang Steelers, or Beijing Guoan.

Head coach Bojan Hodak said that regardless of the draw outcome, his team are ready to fight.

“We know the level will be high, but this is our chance to prove Persib can compete at the Asian level,” he stated.

Group Stage Kicks Off in September 2025

The 2025/2026 ACL 2 group stage will begin in September 2025. Each region will have four groups of four teams, with home-and-away fixtures. This gives Bobotoh — Persib’s passionate supporters — the chance to witness their team take on Asia’s heavyweights live at GBLA.

15 Potential Opponents in the East Region

Based on the official participant list, here are the 15 potential opponents for Persib in the ACL 2 East Region group stage:

• Bangkok United (Thailand)
• Gamba Osaka (Japan)
• Pohang Steelers (South Korea)
• Beijing Guoan (China)
• BG Pathum United (Thailand)
• Ratchaburi FC (Thailand)
• Macarthur FC (Australia)
• [Other clubs based on additional qualifiers]

Thailand’s dominance is evident with three clubs on the list, while Japan, South Korea, and China each field experienced continental campaigners. Australia also poses a strong threat with their fast-paced and physical style of play.

Tough Challenge, High Hopes for Bobotoh

Facing such opposition will be no easy task, given the gap in competition level, international experience, and squad depth. However, Bojan Hodak believes full Bobotoh support will be Persib’s greatest weapon.

“Playing at GBLA is always special. We will fight for every point in front of our supporters,” he said.

The Bobotoh community erupted in celebration on social media after Persib’s qualification, many seeing it as a significant step in reviving West Java’s football prestige on the Asian stage.

Eyes on the Asian Stage

Persib’s qualification for ACL 2 is not only a sporting achievement but also a historic milestone. It marks a chance to build an international reputation and test the squad’s quality against top-class opponents.

The group stage draw on 15 August 2025 will be a moment to watch, as it decides which giants Maung Bandung will face. Whatever the outcome, one thing is certain — Persib are ready to spring surprises in Asia, flying the flag for Bandung and Indonesia on football’s grand stage.