Matchday 18 of the BRI Super League 2025/26 marks the beginning of the second half of the season and arrives with a tightly contested title race. With Persib Bandung leading the table, several direct clashes among top and mid-table teams could significantly shape the standings. Below is a comprehensive preview of the fixtures, supported by form analysis and expert predictions.
Context: The League After 17 Matches
After 17 rounds, the Super League table reflects a highly competitive landscape. Persib Bandung sit at the top with 38 points, closely followed by Borneo FC Samarinda on 37. Persija Jakarta remain firmly in contention in third place with 35 points, while Malut United continue to impress in fourth.
The gap between the top six remains narrow, meaning consistency in the early stages of the second round will be decisive. At the opposite end, several teams are already under pressure to avoid being dragged deeper into the relegation zone.
Matchday 18 Fixtures Overview
Matchday 18 will be played from Friday, 23 January to Monday, 26 January 2026, featuring a mix of title-challenging encounters and crucial lower-table battles.
Persis Solo vs Borneo FC Samarinda
Friday, 23 January 2026 – 15:30 | Manahan Stadium
Borneo FC enter this match as one of the most consistent teams in the league, boasting strong attacking numbers and physical dominance in midfield. Persis Solo, however, are struggling near the bottom and have one of the weakest defensive records so far.
Expert prediction:
Borneo FC to control possession and exploit Persis’ defensive gaps.
Predicted result: Persis Solo 0–2 Borneo FC
Persija Jakarta vs Madura United
Friday, 23 January 2026 – 19:00 | Jakarta International Stadium
Persija open the second round with a crucial home fixture. Despite losing narrowly to Persib in the derby, their overall first-round performance remains strong. Madura United, by contrast, have been inconsistent and vulnerable defensively.
Motivation is high for Persija, who see this match as a chance to reassert their title credentials.
Expert prediction:
High tempo from Persija, strong crowd influence, and improved efficiency in the final third.
Predicted result: Persija Jakarta 2–1 Madura United
Malut United FC vs Persik Kediri
Saturday, 24 January 2026 – 13:30 | Kie Raha Stadium
Malut United continue to be one of the league’s most disciplined teams, especially at home. Persik Kediri, meanwhile, are struggling for form and conceding heavily.
Expert prediction:
Malut United’s pressing and defensive structure should be decisive.
Predicted result: Malut United 2–0 Persik Kediri
Persita vs Bhayangkara Presisi Lampung FC
Saturday, 24 January 2026 – 15:30 | Indomilk Arena
Persita have quietly built momentum and remain strong at home. Bhayangkara, on the other hand, have had difficulty maintaining consistency and are among the lowest scorers in the league.
Expert prediction:
A tight match, but Persita’s home advantage could prove crucial.
Predicted result: Persita 1–0 Bhayangkara FC
Bali United FC vs Semen Padang FC
Saturday, 24 January 2026 – 15:30 | Kapten I Wayan Dipta Stadium
Bali United are steadily climbing the table, while Semen Padang remain deep in relegation trouble and concede goals at a high rate.
Expert prediction:
Bali United to dominate possession and chances.
Predicted result: Bali United 3–1 Semen Padang
Persijap Jepara vs PSM Makassar
Saturday, 24 January 2026 – 19:00 | Gelora Bumi Kartini Stadium
Persijap recently ended a long losing streak, but consistency remains an issue. PSM Makassar, despite being mid-table, possess experience and tactical maturity.
Expert prediction:
A cautious match with limited chances.
Predicted result: Persijap Jepara 1–1 PSM Makassar
PSIM Yogyakarta vs Persebaya Surabaya
Sunday, 25 January 2026 – 15:30 | Sultan Agung Stadium
PSIM have shown resilience and balance throughout the first round. Persebaya, meanwhile, are difficult to beat but often settle for draws.
Expert prediction:
Evenly matched contest with tactical discipline on both sides.
Predicted result: PSIM Yogyakarta 1–1 Persebaya Surabaya
Persib Bandung vs PSBS Biak
Sunday, 25 January 2026 – 19:00 | Gelora Bandung Lautan Api Stadium
League leaders Persib begin the second round at home against one of the weakest defensive sides in the competition. With strong form and squad depth, Persib will be clear favorites.
Expert prediction:
Persib to dominate from the opening minutes.
Predicted result: Persib Bandung 3–0 PSBS Biak
Dewa United Banten FC vs Arema FC
Monday, 26 January 2026 – 19:00 | Banten International Stadium
Both teams sit in the mid-table zone and desperately need points to stay relevant in the race for the top six. Arema have struggled defensively, while Dewa United are more stable at home.
Expert prediction:
Balanced contest with moments of attacking quality.
Predicted result: Dewa United 2–1 Arema FC
Focus on Persija Jakarta: A Statement Match to Open the Second Round
Persija Jakarta closed the first round in third place with 35 points and remain firmly in the title conversation. Despite the narrow derby defeat to Persib, internal assessments point to optimism rather than disappointment.
Players such as Maxwell and Jordi Amat have emphasized growth, mental resilience, and consistency as key objectives for the second round. Facing Madura United at home, Persija view Matchday 18 as an opportunity to reset momentum and send a clear message to their rivals.
A convincing result could reinforce Persija’s position among the league’s elite and provide a psychological boost for the weeks ahead.
What to Expect from Matchday 18
Matchday 18 represents more than just the return of league action—it is a strategic checkpoint. Title contenders must avoid early mistakes, while teams near the bottom cannot afford further setbacks.
With several high-stakes fixtures and contrasting objectives across the table, this round has the potential to significantly reshape the Super League landscape.
For in-depth coverage, tactical analysis, and team news, readers can explore our news section.
