As a long-time expat in Bali, I’ve had the chance to catch a few Indonesian football matches at the stadium. One of them was a thrilling match between Bali United and Persik Kediri, which left me eager to share my thoughts on the sport and the teams.
I’ve been to several matches at the Kapten I Wayan Dipta Stadium in Gianyar, but this one was special. The energy of the crowd was electric, and the players gave it their all. Bali United is known for its passionate fan base, and this match was no exception.
My Take on the Match
From what I’ve seen, Bali United has a decent team, but they still have a lot to learn. Persik Kediri, on the other hand, has some talented players, but they struggled to keep up with the home team’s pace. The final score was 2-1 in favor of Bali United, but it was a closely contested match.
One thing that struck me was how different the two teams’ strategies were. Bali United relied heavily on individual brilliance, while Persik Kediri tried to play it safe and focus on defense. It’s interesting to see how different approaches can lead to varying results.
The Stadium Experience
I’ve been to several football stadiums in Bali, but Kapten I Wayan Dipta Stadium is one of my favorites. The seating is comfortable, and the views of the surrounding rice fields are stunning. Plus, the food vendors offer a range of delicious Indonesian snacks, including my personal favorite, siomay ( Rp 5,000 / $0.35 USD each).
The stadium is also relatively easy to get to, with several bus routes stopping nearby. I recommend taking a angkot (minivan) from the Ubud terminal to get there. The fare is around Rp 5,000 / $0.35 USD, and the ride takes about 30 minutes.
Practical Tips
- Get there early: The stadium opens several hours before the match, so be sure to arrive early to soak in the pre-game atmosphere.
- Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be standing and walking for several hours, so wear shoes that can handle the demands of the match.
- Bring a snack: While the food vendors offer a range of snacks, it’s always a good idea to bring your own to save money and time.
- Learn some Indonesian: While many locals speak English, learning a few basic phrases, such as ‘hello’ (halo) and ‘thank you’ (terima kasih), can go a long way in showing respect for the culture.
My Verdict
Overall, I think Bali United has a lot of potential, but they still need to work on their consistency. Persik Kediri, on the other hand, has some talented players, but they need to develop a more cohesive strategy to take on the top teams.
As a fan, I appreciate the passion and energy of the crowd, but as a neutral observer, I think the stadium could benefit from some improvements, such as better sound systems and more comfortable seating.
Despite these minor quibbles, I highly recommend catching a match at Kapten I Wayan Dipta Stadium if you’re in Bali. It’s an exhilarating experience that’s sure to leave you on the edge of your seat.
FAQ
Q: What time do the matches usually start?
A: The matches typically start at 15:30 local time.
Q: Can I buy tickets at the stadium?
A: Yes, you can buy tickets at the stadium, but be prepared for long lines and limited availability.
Q: Are the seats available for purchase online?
A: Yes, some seats are available for purchase online through the official Bali United website or through ticketing platforms like Ticket.com.
