Arema FC Target Victory in Final Match Against PSIM Yogyakarta
Arema FC refuses to take a relaxed stance ahead of the Indonesia Super League 2025/2026 final match. The Singo Edan will play with full intensity when hosting PSIM Yogyakarta at the Kanjuruhan Stadium in Kepanjen on Friday (22 May). The move is to secure a full three points and improve their standing in the Super League 2025/2026 table.
A convincing 5-2 win over PSBS Biak in their previous match provided a morale boost for Arema FC.
However, the result did not blind coach Marcos Santos to the team’s weaknesses. The Brazilian tactician pointed to defensive lapses that remain to be addressed.
In the match against PSBS, Arema’s goal was breached twice through different sequences. The first goal came from a fast counter-attack exploiting a lapse on the left side of the defence. The second came from a penalty after a defender committed a handball inside the box.
Arema’s brittle defence is a serious note given that PSBS were in a goal drought before the game, failing to score in five consecutive matches against Persija, Persijap, Malut United, Persebaya Surabaya, and Dewa United Banten FC.
Santos warned his players not to be carried away by the goal spree.
According to him, even the smallest lapse in defence could be fatal when facing a team with a more aggressive attacking line.
‘Aside from that victory over PSBS, we must not ignore the two goals conceded,’ he said, quoted from the official I League site.
Based on the coaching staff’s evaluation, Arema’s defensive line was often too loose, giving opponents free shooting space, particularly in anticipating loose balls and the transition from attack to defence.
In addition, the discipline of players when losing the ball was a concern as several pillars were slow to fall back after contributing to the attack.
Although there was improvement in the second half against PSBS, Santos stressed that a comprehensive overhaul remains mandatory before facing PSIM Yogyakarta. High vigilance is required as the forthcoming opponents possess far more potent firepower.
‘The upcoming match will not be easy for us. Especially as this opponent (PSIM Yogyakarta) has a more dangerous frontline,’ he added.
Arema FC currently sits ninth in the standings with 45 points.
The chance to crack the top eight remains wide open, provided they secure three points in the season-ending match.
‘We want to give our best and something positive for Arema FC supporters. This is not just the final match. We must strive to deliver our best performance to end the season well, and attempt to improve our position in the standings,’ Santos concluded.
PSIM Yogyakarta are targeting the AFC Champions League Two (ACL 2) license in the 2026/2027 season to open the path to Asian competition in 2027/2028.
Deltras FC has again secured the AFC license for 2025/2026, marking three consecutive years as a licensed club. This achievement is seen as proof of improved professionalism standards.