I.League Cup 2026: De Red FC and Persela Lamongan prepare for opening matches

The inaugural I.League Cup 2026 features several key matchups as teams begin their group stage campaigns. In the East Zone 2 group, De Red FC is set to host PSM Makassar at Gelora 10 November Stadium in Surabaya. De Red FC coach Aji Santoso is expected to utilize player rotation to manage squad fitness ahead of an upcoming Championship match against BSBS Biak, potentially giving more playing time to reserve players.

In another fixture, Persela Lamongan will host Persijap Jepara at Surajaya Stadium. Persela coach Bima Sakti stated that despite a tight recovery window following a recent Championship match against Persipura Jayapura, the team is prepared to pursue three points. Persijap Jepara coach Juan Cortes views the tournament as essential preparation for the upcoming Liga Super.