PSM Makassar and PSIM Yogyakarta face different challenges ahead of their postponed fixtures in the 2025/26 Super League. From PSM’s need to improve finishing efficiency to the decisive contribution of PSIM’s substitutes, this week has become an important moment of reflection for both teams competing near the top of the table.
Tomas Trucha Highlights PSM’s Finishing Ahead of Bandung Trip
PSM Makassar are preparing for their postponed Week 8 Super League 2025/26 match against Persib Bandung at Gelora Bandung Lautan Api Stadium. The preparation comes after a narrow 0–1 defeat to Malut United FC, a result that did not fully reflect the overall flow of the match.
In that game, Pasukan Ramang created several clear scoring opportunities. However, their failure to capitalize in the final third proved decisive. Head coach Tomas Trucha emphasized that the main issue was not the build-up play, but the lack of sharpness when chances were created.
Tactical Transition and the Risks That Come With It
Since his arrival, Tomas Trucha has gradually reshaped PSM Makassar’s playing identity. Previously known for their compact defensive structure and counter-attacking approach, PSM are now adopting a more possession-based style.
The team aims to dominate the ball, circulate passes more effectively, exploit off-the-ball movement, and generate a higher volume of chances. However, this tactical evolution also carries risks. Early-match concentration and finishing efficiency remain areas that still require improvement.
The early goal conceded against Malut United in the second minute illustrated how a single lapse can have a significant impact. Tomas stressed the importance of maintaining discipline from the opening moments and avoiding giving opponents an early psychological advantage.
High-Intensity Training Without a Break
Ahead of the trip to Bandung, Tomas opted not to grant his players any rest days. Nearly a full week of training sessions has been dedicated to improving finishing and decision-making inside the penalty area. The objective is clear: ensure that territorial dominance and ball control translate into goals and points.
PSIM Yogyakarta and the Crucial Role of Substitute Players
Meanwhile, PSIM Yogyakarta displayed a different dynamic when they were held to a 1–1 draw by Persijap Jepara in Week 15. Played at Gelora Bumi Kartini Stadium without spectators, the match unfolded at a controlled pace with limited space for both sides.
PSIM fell behind before eventually equalizing in the fifth minute of stoppage time through Riyatno Abiyoso. The goal was the result of sustained pressure applied by PSIM in the closing stages of the match.
Van Gastel Praises the Impact of Substitutions
PSIM head coach Jean Paul Van Gastel admitted that the team’s overall performance did not meet his full expectations. Nevertheless, he highlighted the positive influence of the substitutes, who were able to change the tempo and direction of the game.
The introduction of fresh players added energy, increased attacking intensity, and helped PSIM push higher up the pitch in search of an equalizer. Van Gastel viewed this as a positive indicator of the squad’s depth and flexibility.
The additional point keeps PSIM firmly in the upper half of the standings and provides confidence ahead of their postponed Week 8 match against PSBS Biak at Sultan Agung Stadium in Bantul.
Stadium Atmosphere and Mental Challenges
Van Gastel also pointed to non-technical factors that influenced the match, particularly the absence of spectators. According to the Dutch coach, playing in an empty stadium affected emotional intensity and player motivation—an aspect that must be anticipated in similar situations going forward.
Reflections Ahead of the Postponed Fixtures
PSM Makassar and PSIM Yogyakarta are currently at different stages of evaluation. PSM are working to refine their tactical transformation so that dominance does not go unrewarded, while PSIM are beginning to benefit from squad depth and tactical adaptability.
How both teams respond in the coming fixtures will play a crucial role in shaping their trajectory in an increasingly competitive 2025/26 Super League season.
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