Matchweek 16 of the BRI Super League 2025/26 delivered major shifts in the title race, standout performances from local talents, and disciplinary incidents involving Indonesian national team players. From Borneo FC’s return to the summit to growing relegation concerns in Central Java, here are the five most important stories shaping the league at this stage of the season.
A Pivotal Week in the BRI Super League Title Race
The BRI Super League 2025/26 continues to intensify as Matchweek 16, played between January 3 and January 5, 2026, produced decisive changes at both ends of the table. Across nine matches, momentum swung dramatically, particularly among the top contenders fighting for the championship.
Borneo FC Samarinda emerged as the biggest winners of the week, capitalizing on slip-ups by their closest rivals to reclaim first place. Meanwhile, Persib Bandung and Persija Jakarta found themselves locked in an increasingly tight race just behind the leaders, keeping the title battle wide open.
Beyond the standings, the week also highlighted the growing influence of domestic players, disciplinary controversies involving national team stars, and deepening struggles for clubs at the bottom of the table.
Borneo FC Back on Top After Capitalizing on Rivals’ Stumbles
Borneo FC Samarinda made full use of the opportunity presented by their rivals’ dropped points to return to the top of the standings. A 2–1 victory over PSM Makassar on Saturday, January 3, 2026, proved decisive in their ascent.
Forward Joel Vinicius was the hero of the night, scoring both goals to secure three crucial points for Pesut Etam. The win lifted Borneo FC to 37 points, placing them narrowly ahead of the chasing pack.
At the same time, Persib Bandung were held to a 1–1 draw away at Persik Kediri, a result that caused them to slip to third place with 35 points. Persija Jakarta now sit second on 36 points, adding further tension to an already congested title race.
Red Cards for Rafael Struick and Saddil Ramdani Spark Debate
Matchweek 16 was also marked by controversial disciplinary incidents involving two Indonesian international players. Rafael Struick received a red card while playing for Dewa United in their away match against Bhayangkara FC.
The young striker was dismissed deep into stoppage time by referee Asep Yandis after kicking the ball toward Ilija Spasojevic, who was on the ground at the time. The incident was particularly ironic, as Struick has yet to score a league goal this season but has already been sent off.
A similar fate befell Saddil Ramdani of Persib Bandung. Despite scoring for his team, Saddil was shown a second yellow card in the 81st minute after committing a foul on Yusuf Meilana, forcing Persib to finish the match with ten men.
These incidents have reignited discussions around discipline, decision-making, and emotional control among high-profile local players.
Local Players Step Into the Spotlight
While foreign players continue to dominate headlines, Matchweek 16 served as a strong reminder of the impact local talent still has in the Super League. Young Persija Jakarta players Arlyansyah Abdulmanan and Aditya Warman played key roles in their team’s victory over Persijap Jepara.
Elsewhere, Yakob Sayuri and Frets Butuan were among the goalscorers as Malut United recorded a six-goal performance against PSBS Biak. Bali United defender Kadek Agung also made his mark, scoring the decisive goal in a narrow win over Arema FC.
Despite his red card, Saddil Ramdani’s name on the scoresheet further underlined how domestic players continue to influence results, even in a league increasingly shaped by foreign imports.
Central Java Clubs in Deep Trouble at the Bottom
The situation looks increasingly bleak for Persis Solo and Persijap Jepara, the two Central Java representatives currently anchored to the bottom of the table. Without immediate improvement, both clubs are emerging as leading candidates for relegation.
Persis Solo suffered another heavy blow after a 3–1 home defeat to Persita Tangerang, marking their 11th loss of the season. Their statistical record paints a grim picture: only one win all season, achieved against Madura United in the opening week, followed by four draws and eleven defeats.
With confidence eroding and pressure mounting, time is rapidly running out for the Laskar Sambernyawa.
Milomir Seslija Still Searching for His First Win
The return of Milomir Seslija to the Persis Solo bench has yet to deliver the desired turnaround. The Bosnian coach remains winless after three matches in charge, all ending in defeat.
Under Seslija, Persis have been beaten 5–1 by Dewa United, 2–1 by Persik, and most recently 3–1 by Persita Tangerang at Manahan Stadium. Defensive frailty and a lack of cutting edge in attack continue to plague the team.
A critical test now awaits as Persis prepare to face fellow relegation-zone side Semen Padang, a match that could significantly influence the survival prospects of both clubs.
Conclusion: A League Entering a Decisive Phase
Matchweek 16 highlighted just how unpredictable the BRI Super League 2025/26 has become. With the title race tightening at the top, disciplinary issues affecting key players, and relegation battles intensifying, every match now carries heightened significance.
As the season progresses, consistency, squad depth, and mental resilience will likely determine which teams remain in contention—and which fall away. The coming weeks promise even more drama as the league edges closer to its defining moments.
