Persiku Kudus 1-2 Semen Padang: Visitors Seal Late Win in Liga 2 Battle

Semen Padang secured an important 2-1 away victory over Persiku Kudus in Indonesian Liga 2 on Saturday, 24 October 2026, with a late goal deciding a match that swung back and forth. The win boosts Semen Padang's promotion ambitions and leaves Persiku Kudus with a frustrating home defeat.

Match overview

Semen Padang made a strong start and took the lead inside the first half-hour, capitalising on a defensive lapse to score from close range. The visitors looked organised and dangerous on the counter, but Persiku Kudus responded well to going behind, gradually building pressure and finding an equaliser before the break.

The second half developed into a tense contest. Persiku Kudus pushed forward in search of a winner, while Semen Padang remained compact and looked to exploit the spaces left behind. As the game appeared to be heading for a draw, Semen Padang struck again in the closing minutes, converting a late chance to snatch all three points.

Persiku Kudus had little time to respond, and Semen Padang managed the final moments calmly to secure a valuable away win. The result was a testament to the visitors' efficiency and their ability to stay in the game when under pressure.

Key moments

• 22' — Semen Padang take the lead: A mistake in the Persiku defence was punished with a composed finish, putting the visitors 1-0 up.
• 39' — Persiku Kudus equalise: The home side's persistence paid off when a well-placed shot found the corner of the net.
• 76' — Persiku denied: A goal-bound effort from the home team was blocked by a last-ditch challenge inside the box.
• 89' — Semen Padang score the winner: A quick counterattack ended with a clinical finish, silencing the home crowd and sealing the three points.

Tactical story

Persiku Kudus controlled much of the possession, especially in the second half, and tried to stretch Semen Padang with wide play and crosses into the box. However, they struggled to break down a disciplined defensive unit that stayed compact and forced Persiku into lower-percentage shots. The home side's best chances came from set-pieces and second balls, but they lacked the final touch when it mattered most.

Semen Padang's game plan was built on defensive solidity and quick transitions. They were happy to let Persiku have the ball in less dangerous areas and then hit hard on the counter. Both goals came from moments of quick thinking and direct play, highlighting the visitors' efficiency. Their late winner was a perfect example of patience and timing, as they waited for Persiku to commit men forward before striking.

Standout performers

The Semen Padang forward line was decisive, with the match-winner showing composure under pressure in the closing stages. Their central defenders also deserve credit for weathering a sustained period of Persiku pressure, clearing crosses and making important blocks. For Persiku Kudus, the midfielder who equalised was the home side's standout performer, driving forward and trying to create openings throughout the second half.

Season impact

The victory gives Semen Padang a valuable boost in the Liga 2 standings, strengthening their push for a promotion challenge. For Persiku Kudus, the defeat is a setback, particularly because they had worked their way back into the game and looked capable of taking the lead. The home side must now regroup quickly as they look to turn possession and pressure into points in their next outing.