Persib Bandung Academy has successfully qualified for the semifinals of the U18 category in the Hydroplus Soccer League (HSL) All-Stars 2025/2026, after defeating Samba Persada Women 2-0 in the Group B match at Supersoccer Arena, Kudus.
Persib's two winning goals were scored by Auliah Arifah in the 43rd minute and Mega Aprilia in the 59th minute, in the 2x35 minute women's soccer match.
"For the semifinals, we will try to play more effectively and efficiently," said Persib Bandung Academy Head Coach Dian Nadia Mutiara in a press conference after the match.
He explained that his team had deliberately adopted a more cautious approach to secure a place in the semifinals, while also ensuring the players' physical condition remained fit for the knockout phase.
According to Dian, the hot weather surrounding the match prompted the coaching team to rotate a number of players, especially in the front line, so that the core players could rest and minimize the risk of fatigue and injury.
He acknowledged that the decision risked changing the outcome of the match by fielding a reserve player. However, he believed the strong determination of all the players, along with the almost equal quality, would enable him to overcome Samba Persada's resistance.
Dian stated that the substitutions also provided an opportunity for players who had not yet appeared in the group stage to get playing time, as the main purpose of participating in the tournament was player development.
