South Sumatra United U-19 Becomes Champion of Elite Pro Academy Championship

JAKARTA - The Sumsel United U-19 youth team managed to emerge as champions of the Elite Pro Academy (EPA) Championship after defeating Persiku Kudus in the final match.

The two teams had a very tight final duel at the Garudayaksa Academy Field, Bekasi, on Saturday, May 16, 2026. After exchanging attacks, Sumsel finally closed the match with a narrow score of 3-2 to climb to the top of the podium.

Sumsel United U-19 coach Ardi Hernando said that this success was the result of careful preparation and consistency maintained since the beginning of the competition.

"From the beginning we prepared for the match until the last point today. We are going well, thank God, and the children are also at their best," said Ardi, who could not hide his gratitude for his students' achievements.

Persiku Kudus U-19 who came out as runners-up, actually surprised at the beginning of the first half through two quick goals scored by Muhammad Bagus Pradana in the 17th minute and Maulana Aldiansyah one minute later.

However, Sumsel United U-19 immediately responded quickly. They narrowed the score through Pasha Andrio before Muhammad Daffa Trihardi appeared as a hero through his two goals (brace).

The victory was the culmination of the Sumsel game chart which continued to climb and was consistent from the qualifying phase to the last eight.

"Alhamdulillah, the children from us and the coaching team always maintain the name of physical, team quality, and children's game quality with regular training," said Ardi.

He further said that the presence of the EPA competition for age groups at the Championship level is a very positive step for the development of young footballers in Indonesia.

Ardi said that this event provides a competition space that is equivalent to the EPA Super League to add playing minutes for young U-19 players.

In addition, Ardi also praised the quality of the talent who competed in the EPA this season. He even recommended some names that he considered worthy of being watched by the national team at the age level.

"If it's for talent, I think it's very extraordinary. The children for EPA are almost the same quality, the quality is quite good and very good even according to me. And it is worth being called for national team selection," he said.

The success of winning this trophy is also a blessing for the young pillars of Sumsel United U-19. Ardi revealed that there are three names from the Sumsel United EPA squad who are projected to be promoted to the senior team next season.

"If for the EPA from South Sumatra there are probably three names, maybe Daffa (Muhammad Daffa Trihardi), then there is Banjar, then Zaid. Three players," said Ardi.

He then hoped that age group competitions such as the Elite Pro Academy could continue to roll with a much better system and governance in the coming seasons.

"Hopefully it can be better than this year. Because this year we think it's pretty good and very extraordinary. Hopefully next year will be better," he said.