The Livin' Mandiri women's team opened up their chances of qualifying for the 2026 Proliga Final Four after defeating the top team Jakarta Pertamina Enduro (JPE) 3-1 (25-12, 25-20, 15-25, 25-20) in the second round at the Main Sports Hall, Bojonegoro, Friday.
This victory was a major upset in Indonesia's elite volleyball competition. Livin' Mandiri had only won five of their ten matches.
"We, the coaching staff, have instructed the children to play without any pressure, and we can see the results for ourselves," said Livin Mandiri assistant coach Wilda Siti Nurfadila in a written statement.
"After going two-nil up, the boys were a little complacent and under pressure. That's something we need to improve on in the next match."
Wilda emphasized that his team remains optimistic about advancing to the 2026 Proliga Final Four.
Livin' Mandiri player, Dian Pratiwi, admitted that there was a little pressure when her opponent took the third set.
"But our coach asked us to play freely," said Dian, who also hopes his team will be consistent in their next match in the 2026 Proliga.
The victory was also remarkable considering that JPE was bolstered by national team mainstay Megawati Hangestri and foreign players. However, the teamwork of Danai Sriwatcharamethakul's team proved key to their fierce resistance.
