The highly anticipated match between Persija and Persib on Tuesday night was not simply another significant event in the world of football. The clash in the 28th week of the 2021/2022 Liga 1 was driven by pride and prestige.
Since their first encounter in 1933, the two teams have competed against each other 169 times. Persib achieved victory in 59 matches, while Persija claimed 50 wins, with 49 draws, and 11 results that remain inconclusive.
The 2002 meeting marked the beginning of their rivalry, with a 1-1 draw at Siliwangi Stadium where Persija players had to be escorted out with armored vehicles. The equalizing goal by Persija’s Budi Sudarsono was controversial, as it came from a throw-in that was turned into a scoring opportunity after a disputed foul.
Prior to this, there were tensions, primarily manifested as clashes between the supporters. The first significant incident was in 1999, followed by another in 2001 after attending a TV quiz show in West Jakarta.
The animosity escalated into a deep-seated vendetta, as the fanatical antagonism between The Jakmania and Viking or Bobotoh supporters overshadowed the football matches. The rivalry has resulted in numerous casualties, from injuries to even fatalities, plunging Indonesian football into mourning.
The regional egos and pride, known anthropologically as primordialism, have become deeply ingrained in the Persija and Persib encounters. Although attempts at reconciliation have been made, the roots of ego run deep.
The egos of Jakarta and Bandung have ballooned, further fueled by social media, amplifying the battleground and heating up the conflict. Provocateurs continuously emerge, provoking and escalating the tensions in every encounter.
As the upcoming duel approached, both factions engaged in their own methods of incitement, intensifying the rivalry with incessant taunts and jibes aimed at the pride of their respective clubs.
Fortunately, the confrontational egos have somewhat subsided, and the focus has shifted towards the prestige of the duel. Blind fanatical rivalry is now being combated collectively.
Therefore, amidst the pandemic, this duel will carry even greater significance than usual. A captivating match, fair officiating, and an absence of post-match altercations will continue to erode the regional egos.
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