Semen Padang and PSBS Biak Relegated to Liga 2 After Dewa United Victory

The battle for survival in the 2025-26 Indonesian Super League has reached a brutal conclusion for one of its historic members. Following a devastating defeat at the hands of Dewa United, Semen Padang FC has officially been relegated to Liga 2, marking a dark chapter for the club known as Kabau Sirah.

The result serves as a stark reminder of the volatility of the top flight, where a lack of consistency and a depleted roster can quickly lead to a spiral of failure. For Dewa United, the victory was not just about the three points, but a statement of intent as they continue to push for a top-four finish in the standings.

The Final Blow: Dewa United Dominates

The match that sealed Semen Padang’s fate was a one-sided affair that highlighted the vast gap in quality between the two sides this season. Dewa United’s tactical discipline and clinical finishing left the visitors with no answers, ultimately confirming that the mathematical possibility of survival had vanished.

The defeat was the culmination of a nightmare run for the Padang-based side. Prior to this encounter, Semen Padang had already suffered a string of losses, including a 0-1 defeat to Madura United on April 29, 2026, which extended their negative trend to five consecutive losses. The psychological toll of these results was evident on the pitch, as the team struggled to maintain defensive cohesion.

For Dewa United, the victory reinforces their position as a rising power in Indonesian football. Under the guidance of Dutch coach Jan Olde Riekerink, the Banten-based club has transitioned from a newly promoted side into a genuine contender. Their ability to dismantle a struggling Semen Padang reflects a level of maturity and offensive fluidity that has become their trademark this campaign.

A Season of Struggle for Kabau Sirah

The descent into Liga 2 was not a sudden event but a slow erosion. Throughout the 2025-26 season, Semen Padang struggled with consistency and the loss of key players. Head coach Imran Nahumarury had repeatedly emphasized that the mission to survive remained the priority, but the results on the field told a different story.

The club’s struggles were further exacerbated by a lack of goal-scoring threat and an inability to hold onto leads. The frustration among the fanbase reached a boiling point in late April, with reports of supporter boycotts during a 0-2 loss to Persijap Jepara on April 20, 2026, at the Stadion Haji Agus Salim.

By the time the final matches arrived, the management and coaching staff began to pivot. According to reports from May 2, 2026, the club had already started shifting its focus toward preparing for Liga 2, acknowledging the reality that staying in the Super League was no longer a viable goal despite having four matches remaining in the calendar.

Broader Implications: The Relegation Picture

Semen Padang is not alone in its misfortune. The Super League’s relegation battle has been ruthless, with PSBS Biak as well suffering a catastrophic fall. On May 2, 2026, PSBS Biak became the first team officially relegated to the Pegadaian Championship (Liga 2) after a heavy 0-4 defeat against Persebaya Surabaya at the Stadion Gelora Bung Tomo.

The fall of PSBS Biak, combined with Semen Padang’s relegation, underscores a season of extreme polarization. While teams like Persib Bandung and Borneo Samarinda have fought for the title, the bottom of the table has been characterized by financial instability and tactical collapses.

For the league, these results mean that the “drop zone” is now clearly defined. The loss of teams like Semen Padang—a club with deep roots and a passionate following—will leave a void in the regional representation of the league, particularly in West Sumatra.

Tactical Breakdown: Why Semen Padang Failed

Analysis of Semen Padang’s campaign reveals three primary failures that led to their relegation:

• Defensive Fragility: The team consistently conceded goals in the final 15 minutes of matches, suggesting a lack of fitness and mental fortitude.
• Lack of Clinical Finishing: While they occasionally dominated possession, they failed to convert chances into goals, leaving them unable to turn draws into wins.
• Roster Attrition: The loss of “pillar” players throughout the season left coach Imran Nahumarury with limited options on the bench, forcing a reliance on inexperienced youth players during high-stakes matches.

In contrast, Dewa United’s success is built on a foundation of strategic recruitment and a clear identity. Their approach emphasizes high-pressing and rapid transitions, which proved far too overwhelming for a Semen Padang side that lacked the speed to recover once the ball was lost.

What Lies Ahead

For Dewa United, the objective is now clear: secure a spot in the top four to ensure continued growth and potential continental competition. The club remains determined to sweep the remaining fixtures to solidify their standing.

For Semen Padang, the focus turns to a complete overhaul. Rebuilding for Liga 2 will require not only a modern tactical approach but potentially a restructuring of the club’s management to avoid a repeat of this season’s collapse. The goal will be a swift return to the top flight, though the road back from the second tier is rarely easy.

The next major checkpoint for the league will be the final matchday of the regular season, where the remaining relegation spots will be finalized and the champion of the Super League will be crowned. Fans are encouraged to share their thoughts on whether Semen Padang can bounce back quickly or if this marks the start of a long-term decline.