A thrilling 2-2 draw at Gelora Bung Tomo Stadium on Saturday saw league-leading Borneo FC stumble for the third consecutive match, raising concerns about their momentum as the Indonesia Super League season progresses [[1]]. Despite twice taking the lead, Borneo FC were unable to hold off a resilient Persebaya side, settling for a share of the points. The match, originally scheduled for a 12:00 PM UTC kickoff, was delayed to a 8:00 PM local time start due to heavy rainfall in Surabaya [[3]]. This result keeps Borneo FC atop the table, but provides an opening for challengers as the season enters a critical phase.
Surabaya –
Borneo FC and Persebaya played to a thrilling 2-2 draw in Saturday’s Super League action, marking the third consecutive match without a win for the league-leading Borneo FC. The result keeps Borneo at the top of the table, but raises questions about their recent form as the season progresses.
The match, held at Gelora Bung Tomo Stadium on December 20, 2025, saw Borneo take the lead in the 23rd minute. Juan Villa finished off a cross from Caxambu with a first-time shot into the bottom right corner, leaving Persebaya goalkeeper Ernando Ari with no chance.
Persebaya responded quickly, leveling the score just two minutes later. Paulo Gali’s initial shot was saved by Borneo’s Nadeo Arga Winata, but the Timor Leste international pounced on the rebound to make it 1-1 heading into halftime.
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Borneo regained the advantage in the 71st minute, but in unfortunate fashion. Leo Lelis attempted to clear a cross from Mariano Peralta, but instead deflected the ball into his own net, beyond the reach of Ernando.
The drama wasn’t over, as Persebaya once again found an equalizer in the 89th minute. Malik Risaldi blasted a powerful shot past Nadeo from a free-kick situation, securing a 2-2 draw.
This marks the third straight game Borneo FC has failed to secure a victory, following defeats against Bali United and Persib.
Despite the recent struggles, Borneo FC remains at the top of the Super League standings with 34 points. Persebaya, meanwhile, sits in sixth place with 19 points after their fifth consecutive draw.
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