Marc Klok Confirms Persib's Target: Win Against Manila Digger and Qualify for ACL Two

Persib Bandung has no intention of wasting the opportunity to progress to the 2026/2027 AFC Champions League (ACL) Two group stage. Facing Manila Digger at Si Jalak Harupat Stadium, Bandung Regency on Monday (31/8), the side nicknamed Maung Bandung are targeting victory as the absolute requirement to continue their run in the Asian continental competition.

Persib captain Marc Klok confirmed all players have fully directed their focus towards this fixture. According to Klok, preparations completed by the team so far have left the entire Persib squad in full match-ready condition.

“Everyone is hungry, everyone is locked in on this match. We have prepared everything properly. Every member of this squad carries confidence and is ready to contribute tomorrow,” Klok stated in Bandung on Sunday, 30 August 2026.

Klok noted all players hold strong motivation to deliver their best performance. This mindset forms crucial foundation for Persib, who must navigate this decisive tie to earn their ticket to the ACL Two group phase.

Persib Aim To Seal The Mission On Home Ground

Playing in front of their own supporters presents Persib with a valuable chance to secure this target. Klok welcomed the opportunity to once again lead Persib to compete at Asian inter-club level.

He explained ACL Two fixtures always deliver unique experiences for players. Both group stage and playoff matches carry a distinct continental competition atmosphere that presents its own set of challenges.

“AFC Champions League Two is always compelling football, whether it is the group phase or the playoffs. This is an important competition for the club, and for the players it is always a privilege to take part here,” he added.

Despite the squad's excitement over their Asian campaign, Klok has urged his teammates not to lose focus ahead of kickoff.

The player wearing squad number 23 stressed that discussion regarding potential group stage opponents or future rivalries is not a current priority. Persib must first confirm qualification before planning for any subsequent fixtures.

This mentality is critical: this single match will decide if Persib's 2026/2027 ACL Two journey advances to the group stage, or ends permanently at the playoff round.

Klok confirmed every ounce of the team's energy is currently directed exclusively towards their upcoming clash with Manila Digger.

“We only have one target tomorrow: win, and qualify for the group stage. We know what awaits in the group phase, but first we will finish the job right here tomorrow,” he stated.

Persib Prepared To Deliver Maximum Performance

Klok hopes all training work completed alongside the coaching staff will be executed correctly once the match gets underway.

For Persib, this victory is far more than just another positive result. It is the ticket that will keep Maung Bandung competing on the Asian football stage.

For this reason, player concentration will be one of the most critical factors against Manila Digger. Persib will need to maintain effective, disciplined play while avoiding avoidable errors that could derail their mission.

Klok also called on every player to sustain their highest standard of performance from the opening whistle straight through to full time.

Backed by completed preparations and home crowd support at Si Jalak Harupat Stadium, Persib now stand just one match away from their stated target: confirming their place in the 2026/2027 ACL Two group stage.