PSIM Yogyakarta Vs Arema FC: Mission To Win In Home Match Perdana

PSIM Yogyakarta is aiming for victory in the inaugural Super League home match against Arema FC. (VOI.id/Gonang Susatyo)

YOGYAKARTA - PSIM Yogyakarta carried the mission of winning in the first home match when they hosted Arema FC in the 2025/2026 Super League at Sultan Agung Stadium, Bantul, Saturday, August 16, 2025.

Maintaining a positive trend by playing consistently as a target for PSIM. With the status of a promotion team, PSIM succeeded in making a surprise because it was able to beat Persebaya Surabaya 1-0 in the inaugural match of the highest caste competition.

A very meaningful victory because Persebaya is a strong opponent in the Super League. Not only that, they play at home. This is certainly the first three points that can boost players' confidence.

However, victory in Surabaya would be meaningless if Laskar Mataram was unable to maintain consistency. This is because that is what is important when navigating a long competition.

Moreover, PSIM plays in front of its own supporters. If you are unable to take advantage of the opportunity in the home match, PSIM will return to work hard to get up.

Maintain Positive Trend

Coach Jean-Paul van Gastel said the team hoped to maintain a positive trend while playing at home. Van Gastel also mentioned that all players are in good condition for the match against Arema FC.

"We are trying to continue the positive trend. Moreover, this is the first home match and no players are injured. If someone has a minor injury, it is natural because football is physical exercise," Van Gastel said in a press conference before the match, Friday, August 15, 2025.

"Suporters are also so enthusiastic about watching this match. Of course this is a good thing for us. We can't wait to see how the match will be tomorrow at the stadium and we are very enthusiastic," he said.

However, Van Gastel has not been able to field new player Anton Fase even though he has attended training for several days. This Dutch defender is the reason, PSIM still has to complete phase administration. In addition, he still needs adaptation with the team.

"He has only joined us for a while. The registration administration has not yet been completed. So he can't play yet," he said.

"But his condition is quite good. He is also still trying to find the rhythm of playing with the team," said the Dutch coach.

Meanwhile, Arema coach, Marcos Santos said the match against PSIM would not be easy. But Arema FC came to Yogyakarta to take home the points.

"PSIM will be a tough opponent. Even when playing at Persebaya's home, they can win. Surely that is their motivation when playing at home," said Santos.

"The theme must also be more motivated because they play at home to the opponent. So if you get three points, you can make Arema more above [the position]," he said.