Positive Signal Supporters of PSIM Away Versus Persebaya

JAKARTA – I-League President Director Ferry Paulus sees a positive aspect in PSIM Yogyakarta's decision to ban away fans from their away match against Persebaya Surabaya.

The first week of the 2025/2026 Super League clash between Persebaya and PSIM Yogyakarta took place at Gelora Bung Tomo Stadium (GBT) on Friday, August 8, 2025.

Dozens of Laskar Mataram supporters, clad in distinctive attire, decided to attend the match even though the competition still has a ban on away fans.

Ferry did not deny that the ban on fans attending away matches still exists, as outlined by the international football governing body, FIFA.

"It can't be permitted yet, but the positive things that happened today are important for us to note, and this can also be a positive breakthrough," said Ferry after the match between the two teams.

This is the fourth consecutive season that this rule has been in effect in the Super League (formerly Liga 1). The away support ban was first implemented in 2022/23 following the Kanjuruhan Tragedy.

The atmosphere at GBT remained conducive even though Persebaya lost 0-1 to PSIM through a late header from Ezequiel Vidal.

Ferry said the PSSI Disciplinary Committee would take note of the PSIM supporters' presence. However, he hopes the away support ban will be lifted soon.

"When FIFA takes a look later, even though they lost, the away supporters came, and they were very harmonious. Hopefully, this will also be a breakthrough in obtaining permission," he said.

The defeat against PSIM Yogyakarta in their first match of the 2025/2026 Super League season left Persebaya sitting at the bottom of the standings.

The victory over Persebaya Surabaya temporarily moved PSIM to second place in the standings, behind Borneo FC.

Persebaya will next play an away match at Persita Tangerang on Saturday, August 16th. Meanwhile, PSIM played at home against Arema FC on the same day.