Persib Bandung have relocated their upcoming match against Manila Digger to Si Jalak Harupat (SJH) Stadium, with the club citing concerns over the condition of the pitch at Gelora Bandung Lautan Api (GBLA), according to detiksport.
The decision was confirmed on Sunday, with detiksport reporting that the GBLA playing surface was deemed unsuitable for the fixture. The club's official website also confirmed the move, stating that Persib chose SJH to face Manila while keeping GBLA in reserve for future matches.
The venue change comes as Persib prepare for their AFC Champions League Two play-off tie against the Filipino side. The club's preference for SJH was announced ahead of the match, with officials indicating the move was made to safeguard the team's competitive readiness rather than risk playing on a substandard surface.
This is not the first disruption to Persib's pre-season schedule. Kompas.com noted that the club's pre-season has been packed with numerous fixtures, raising questions about whether such a heavy workload is ideal or counterproductive for squad preparation.
In brighter news for the team, CNN Indonesia reported that new signing Berguinho has resumed training ahead of the Manila Digger encounter, offering a timely boost to the squad. Meanwhile, midfielder Saddil Ramdani has publicly stated his determination to help Persib advance past the ACL Two play-off round, according to RRI.co.id.
With the venue now settled and key players returning to fitness, attention turns to whether Persib can deliver a convincing performance at SJH and secure their place in the group stage of the competition.
