Persib Bandung’s qualification for the Round of 16 in the 2025/2026 AFC Champions League 2 is not only a major achievement for the club, but also a strategic boost for Indonesian football. The rise in AFC coefficient points has ensured Indonesia will receive two representatives in Asian competition next season.
Persib Bandung Assert Their Presence on the Asian Stage
Persib Bandung once again delivered an important international achievement by securing a place in the Round of 16 of the 2025/2026 AFC Champions League 2. This milestone confirms that Maung Bandung are capable of competing consistently at the Asian level, while also strengthening the club’s reputation across the region.
The achievement was warmly welcomed by Bobotoh and serves as a positive signal for the development of Indonesian clubs on the continental stage. Persib not only competed effectively, but also demonstrated performance stability that directly influenced Indonesia’s standing in the AFC rankings.
Direct Impact on Indonesia’s AFC Coefficient Ranking
Persib’s progression to the knockout stage made a significant contribution to Indonesia’s AFC coefficient. According to the latest update from Footy Ranking, Indonesia now sit ninth in the AFC East zone with a total of 26.049 points, marking a notable improvement compared to previous standings.
This position reflects the collective performance of Indonesian clubs in Asian competitions, with Persib emerging as one of the main contributors. Within the AFC system, consistent results in continental tournaments are a key factor in determining slot allocations for future seasons.
Indonesia Overtake Cambodia and Secure Two Representatives
The rise in ranking has allowed Indonesia to move ahead of Cambodia, who dropped to tenth place with 24.350 points. Competition among Southeast Asian nations in the AFC coefficient table has intensified, and Persib’s strong performance proved decisive in securing this strategic position.
By finishing ninth, Indonesia officially secure two slots in the AFC Champions League 2 for the 2026/2027 season. This allocation provides greater opportunities for Super League clubs to compete at the Asian level and gain valuable international experience.
Under the current format, the champions of the 2025/2026 Super League will earn an automatic place in the AFC Champions League 2 group stage. Meanwhile, the league runners-up must go through the playoff round to secure their spot. This structure offers strong competitive incentives for top clubs to maintain consistency throughout the season.
Persib Revive History with Higher Ambitions
Persib’s qualification for the Round of 16 this season also recalls their memorable run in the 2015 AFC Cup. At that time, Persib topped their group with 12 points from six matches, showcasing dominance during the group stage.
However, their journey in the 2015 edition ended in the Round of 16 after a 0–2 defeat to Hong Kong side Kitchee at Si Jalak Harupat Stadium. A decade later, Persib return to the same stage with a different context and a stronger, more balanced squad.
With greater experience in Asian competition and improved squad depth, Persib approach the 2025/2026 AFC Champions League 2 with renewed ambition. This tournament is now viewed as a platform for progress rather than a repeat of past disappointment.
For the latest updates on Indonesian clubs in Asian competitions and developments in the Super League, readers can visit our news page.
