Midfield leader Thom Haye opened up about the physical challenges the team faced after a congested match schedule, while interim coach Igor Tolic highlighted fatigue and inadequate recovery as the key factors behind the loss.
Persib Struggle in Ternate as Fatigue Becomes a Major Factor
Persib Bandung’s title defense took a hit on Sunday (14 December 2025) after a 0–2 loss to hosts Malut United FC at Gelora Kie Raha Stadium in Ternate.
The home side struck twice before halftime—first through Igor Inocencio in the 40th minute, followed by a goal from former Persib striker Ciro Alves in stoppage time.
The defeat came just three days after Persib’s high-intensity AFC Champions League Two (ACL 2) match, a schedule that clearly affected player recovery.
Thom Haye: “We tried our best, but it was extremely difficult.”
Persib’s marquee midfielder Thom Haye admitted that it was one of the toughest matches the team has played this season. He emphasized how limited rest impacted the team’s performance.
“As the coach said, we gave everything we had, but it was extremely difficult. We didn’t even have two proper nights of sleep here,” Haye said after the match.
Known by supporters as El Professor for his game intelligence and midfield leadership, Haye noted that with adequate rest and preparation, Persib could have performed at a higher level. Still, he avoided making excuses.
“I still believe we could have achieved a better result, but as a professional player, it’s difficult when preparation time is extremely short,” he added.
Haye ended his remarks by expressing gratitude to Persib supporters around the country.
“To Bobotoh, all I can say is thank you for the constant support. Just a few days ago, you were there at our home match when we qualified for the next round of ACL 2. We appreciate you everywhere we go.”
Igor Tolic Explains Persib’s Defeat to Malut United
With head coach Bojan Hodak suspended due to card accumulation, assistant coach Igor Tolic took charge on the sidelines. He acknowledged that Malut United deserved the victory and that Persib were not physically ready to compete at their usual level.
“Travel, fatigue, and limited rest affected everything.”
“First of all, congratulations to Malut United for earning three points. As for our performance, everything was quite clear. We had just played, we traveled, and our rest time was extremely limited. That had a big impact on us,” Tolic explained.
The Croatian coach reiterated that Persib did their best under the circumstances, but the tight schedule—especially their midweek ACL 2 commitment—left the squad drained.
“We simply were not ready for this match. When we stepped onto the pitch, we still tried to give our best, but that was all we could do today,” he said.
Next: A crucial home match with proper preparation time
Persib now shift their focus to Week 15, where they will host Bhayangkara Presisi Lampung FC in Bandung on Sunday (21 December). Unlike the Ternate fixture, this time Persib have nearly a full week to recover and prepare.
“The plan now is to return to Bandung and prepare for Bhayangkara FC. We have six days before the next match, which gives us proper time to rest,” Tolic said.
Persita Tangerang Make the Most of the League Break Ahead of Persik Clash
While Persib struggled through a congested schedule, Persita Tangerang have taken a different route—using the extended league break to strengthen their squad ahead of their Week 15 home fixture.
Persita will host Persik Kediri on Sunday, 21 December 2025, at Indomilk Arena (15:30 WIB).
Carlos Peña: “We used the break to focus on improvement.”
Head coach Carlos Peña explained that the long break has been beneficial for Persita, allowing the team to analyze weaknesses and refine tactical approaches.
“This has been quite a long break for all teams, but we tried to use it to keep improving as a group in preparation for the next match,” Peña said.
“We always analyze what we can improve from our previous performances, and the team has been focused on that. I believe we made good use of this break.”
Two friendly matches to test new ideas
Persita played two friendly matches during the preparation period—against Persipura Jayapura and Dewa United Banten FC—giving the coaching staff a chance to test different lineups and tactical variations.
“We played two friendlies—against Persipura Jayapura and Dewa United. Both were challenging matches, and we gave minutes to every player,” Peña explained.
“We also tried different tactical solutions that we might apply in the match against Persik Kediri.”
The Spanish coach emphasized the squad’s strong commitment and focus as they approach the return to league action.
“The team has been very committed, and we will stay fully focused ahead of our next home match,” he concluded.
