PSIM Yogyakarta Target Wins, Adhyaksa FC Threatens

JAKARTA - PSIM Yogyakarta and Adhyaksa FC's tight competition for tickets to the last eight of Liga 2 2024/2025. PSIM targets to win when they host Persiku Kudus in a Group 2 duel at the Mandala Krida Stadium, Yogyakarta, Saturday, January 11, 2025 at 15.00 WIB. Meanwhile, Adhyaksa FC also threatened PSIM.

PSIM, which started the second round of the League 2 competition by occupying the top of the standings. But now PSIM is in danger of failing to qualify for the last eight after reaping unsatisfactory results.

The 2-1 defeat at home to Bhayangkara Precision FC made PSIM fail to regain the top position. Moreover, they were then detained 0-0 Persekat Tegal, which was actually at the bottom.

Only being able to get one point from two crucial matches makes PSIM stuck in third place. Even PSIM's position was completely uncomfortable because he received a serious threat from Adhyaksa FC who was ranked fourth. Because Adhyaksa FC is one point adrift with PSIM hosting minor opponents, Persekat.

PSIM's failure to secure a position in the top three led to the rest of coach Seto Nurdiyantoro. Seto's position was replaced by his assistant Erwan Hendarwanto who immediately received a heavy burden because he had to be able to maintain the chances of qualifying for the last eight.

Erwan also ensured that the team was ready for the decisive match. According to him, if the team is able to play loose, they have the opportunity to win the match.

"I just hope the players can play loose so as to give their best in the match. Of course our target has not changed, namely winning the game and qualifying for the last eight," said Erwan, who ensured the players were not under pressure in this home game.

"We are not under pressure. On the other hand, we have agreed that tomorrow's match will be a motivation to win," he said.

In that match, Erwan preferred to be practical and realistic. He did not expect Laskar Mataram to win big like in the first meeting in Kudus. At that time, PSIM was able to win five goals without reply.

"The score is not important to us. It doesn't matter if we score one or two goals, the important thing is that we win the game. If the opponent will be nothing to lose, we will fight too. We make sure it's all over in this last match," Erwan emphasized.

Meanwhile, Persikanu coach Bonggo Pribadi hopes that the team can enjoy the match and play loose. This last match is Persikau's preparation when playing the relegation playoffs.

"We know PSIM is a big team. Even PSIM should compete in League 1. This shows that this match will not be easy. But we will play loose to get the best results. At least we will get points in this match," said Bonggo.

Persiku itself is ranked seventh in Group 2 with 16 points. They are above Persekat and Persikas Subang.