Rising majestically before us stands the Stadion Patriot Candrabhaga. It is more than just a stadium. It is a symbol of Bekasi’s sporting spirit. The Stadion Patriot Candrabhaga has a rich history. It started as Bekasi Stadium in 1980. Back then, it held only 5,000 to 10,000 fans.
Fast forward to 2011. The stadium underwent a massive upgrade. The goal was to transform it into an international-standard venue. The project cost a staggering 450 billion rupiah. The Government of Bekasi funded it gradually. This renovation included a roof made of zincalume metal. The VIP grandstand can host 9,000 spectators. A large parking area was added for cars and motorcycles.
The inauguration took place on March 10, 2014. It coincided with Bekasi’s 17th anniversary. The renovated Stadion Patriot Candrabhaga could now hold 30,000 people. The stadium is home to Persipasi Bekasi. In 2017, Bhayangkara F.C. and Persija Jakarta also used it for home matches.
The Stadion Patriot Candrabhaga has hosted several international events. These include the 2018 Asian Games men’s football tournament. It also hosted the 2018 AFC U-19 Championship. The 2022 AFF U-19 Youth Championship was another highlight.
Let’s talk about some memorable matches. On September 2, 2017, Indonesia played Fiji in an international friendly. The score was 0-0. About 17,518 fans attended. A few days later, Indonesia defeated Cambodia 3-1 on September 4, 2017. On March 25, 2023, Indonesia won against Burundi 3-1 with 4,448 fans cheering.
During the 2018 Asian Games, the stadium buzzed with excitement. On August 20, 2018, Indonesia beat Hong Kong 3-1. Many other group matches took place here. These matches showcased young talent from across Asia.
The 2018 AFC U-19 Championship saw thrilling contests. On October 19, 2018, Vietnam played Jordan. South Korea faced Australia. The stadium provided a great atmosphere for these games.
In 2022, the AFF U-19 Youth Championship brought more action. Indonesia played Vietnam on July 2, 2022. The match ended in a 0-0 draw. On July 8, 2022, Indonesia defeated the Philippines 5-1. The stadium roared with every goal.
The Stadion Patriot Candrabhaga stands as a testament to Bekasi’s commitment to sports. It is a place where athletes compete. It is a place where fans gather. It is a place where memories are made. From its humble beginnings to its current status, the stadium has evolved. It continues to serve as a source of pride for the city. Its name reflects the spirit of patriotism and happiness. Candrabhaga evokes Bekasi’s historical roots. The Stadion Patriot Candrabhaga is ready for the next chapter.