Match preview: Arema hunting momentum at Stadion Kanjuruhan
The stage is set at Stadion Kanjuruhan on 02/02/2026 as Arema welcome struggling Persijap in a Liga 1 clash that carries more urgency for the visitors than the hosts. Arema sit 12th after 18 rounds with 21 points; their campaign has been jagged — flashes of promise peppered with costly inconsistency. Recent results underline that pattern: a morale-boosting 2-1 victory over Persik Kediri was immediately followed by a 2-0 reverse at Dewa United. The home crowd of over 44,000 can hope for a reaction, and the bookies have taken note, pricing Arema as clear favourites at 1.80 in the match-winner market.
Persijap arrive rooted to the foot of the table, 16th with just 12 points and a record that tells a blunt story: three wins, three draws and 12 defeats from 18 matches. Their one bright note in January was a solid 2-0 success over PSM, with Iker Guarrotxena getting top marks in that outing. Yet away form and defensive frailties loom large: 33 goals conceded overall and only two clean sheets so far. Confidence is thin and the recent string of eight losses in ten matches paints a side vulnerable on the road.
Tactical outlook and statistical clues
Both teams have been involved in entertaining fixtures this season — more than 60% of their matches have gone over 2.5 goals — but underlying numbers favour Arema. The hosts create slightly fewer total attacks on average than Persijap but enjoy a healthier home goals balance (14 scored at home versus Persijap’s 7 away). Arema’s defensive record is not perfect; they have conceded 25 overall and kept only one clean sheet at home, which suggests the contest may not be a shutout. Persijap’s backline, however, has been under sustained pressure this campaign, surrendering 33 goals and showing vulnerability away from home.
Head-to-head context offers a neutral reference point: the teams drew 0-0 last season in their league meeting, but current form and home advantage tilt the scales. Bookmakers reflect that with the home win priced at 1.80 (about a 55.6% implied probability), while a draw and away victory sit at longer odds.
Prediction & Betting tip
Expect Arema to seize control in Kepanjen. Their balanced mix of attacking output at home and Persijap’s troubling away record make a home victory the clearest play in the 1X2 market. For readers who want to refine their approach, check practical advice on Soccer betting tips and the choice of markets and remember the psychological side of wagering by reading How to have emotional control when placing bets?
Betting suggestion: 1X2 — Arema to win (Odds: 1.80). This pick aligns with home advantage, current form differences and the bookmaker’s market pricing.
