Shin Tae-yong Opens Opportunity for Persija's New Striker to Make Debut Against Persib at GBK

indonesiatravelsport.com - Persija Jakarta are cleared to field their latest signing for this high-profile grudge match against Persib Bandung. Croatian striker Ivan Mamut is in line to make his debut when Macan Kemayoran hosts Maung Bandung at the Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium (SUGBK), Jakarta, on Saturday 12 September 2026.

Persija head coach Shin Tae-yong has left the door open for Mamut to feature, though he has not yet confirmed whether the new striker will be named directly in the starting XI. The final call will be based on player condition and team tactical requirements.

"Ivan Mamut is a very quality player. There is a good chance he will be involved in tomorrow's match against Persib," stated Shin Tae-yong, as quoted from Persija's official club website.

Mamut was only officially unveiled as a Persija player two days prior to this Persib fixture. He becomes the 12th recruit brought in by Macan Kemayoran ahead of the current season campaign.

Mamut is the second striker signed by Persija, following the earlier arrival of Alexander Jeremejeff. His addition provides Persija with significantly more options to vary their attacking style of play.

Before these signings, Persija's frontline had relied exclusively on Eksel Runtukahu. The arrivals of Mamut and Jeremejeff have now created open, competitive selection pressure in the attacking department.

While a debut remains very much on the cards, Shin Tae-yong has not guaranteed Mamut will start the match from kickoff. The striker's extremely short adaptation period with the squad is a major factor being weighed before the final decision.

This clash with Persib will be Mamut's first test at the club. If selected, he will step out onto one of the biggest, most fiercely contested stages in Indonesian domestic football.

Separately, Shin Tae-yong confirmed Persija have completed full match preparations. He has demanded his side deliver a peak performance for this fixture that carries huge meaning for the Jakmania supporter group.

Persija are targeting to extend their positive early season momentum. The long-running historic rivalry with Persib brings additional pressure, but securing all three points remains the team's primary objective.

Persija have not recorded a victory over Persib since 2023. Their last win against Maung Bandung took place at Candrabhaga Stadium, Bekasi, West Java, during that same year.

Now Persija have the opportunity to end this unwanted winless streak in front of their home supporters. Mamut could become a key part of that effort should Shin Tae-yong grant him playing time.

Both sides enter this match carrying winning momentum from the season opening round. Persija defeated Borneo FC Samarinda 1-0, while Persib opened their 2026/27 Super League campaign with a 3-1 victory over PSM Makassar.