SURABAYA, Indonesia – Ramadan, traditionally a period of blessing and renewal, has instead brought a challenging stretch of results for Persebaya Surabaya. The “Green Force” endured a hard month of competition, culminating in a sobering 5-1 defeat to Borneo FC, leaving fans and management searching for answers as the Indonesia Super League season progresses.
The team’s performance during Ramadan – four matches yielding just four points – has raised concerns about their ability to contend for a top-four finish. Currently seventh in the league standings, Persebaya has even been overtaken by Bhayangkara Presisi FC, coached by Paul Munster, who previously managed the club last season. This shift in the table underscores the urgency for improvement.
The recent form raises questions about Persebaya’s consistency, especially as several rivals above them demonstrate greater stability. A comprehensive evaluation of the squad and coaching strategies is now underway, according to club officials.
Struggles in Front of Goal
A key issue identified by coach Bernardo Tavares is the team’s inability to convert scoring opportunities. While Persebaya has been creating chances in recent matches, they’ve struggled to capitalize, leading to dropped points. The match against Borneo FC exemplified this problem; despite registering four shots on target, they managed to score only once.
“We too had several opportunities, but only managed to score one goal. Now we have to seem back at this match and analyze what actually happened,” Tavares stated, as reported by the club’s official website. This self-assessment signals a commitment to addressing the offensive shortcomings.
The defeat to Borneo FC, which took place on March 7, 2026, was particularly damaging. Sofascore details of the match present the extent of the loss, highlighting the need for immediate defensive adjustments.
Ramadan Results Under the Microscope
Persebaya’s Ramadan schedule proved unforgiving. The month began with a 3-1 loss to Persijap Jepara on February 21, 2026. A subsequent 1-0 victory over PSM Makassar offered a brief respite, but the team then drew 2-2 with Persib Bandung on March 2, 2026, before the heavy defeat to Borneo FC. Detik.com provides a detailed recap of Persebaya’s Ramadan performance, emphasizing the inconsistency that plagued the team.
The inconsistency is particularly concerning given the expectations surrounding Persebaya, a club with a passionate fanbase and a history of success. The pressure to perform is amplified by the presence of experienced players and a coaching staff led by Tavares, who is known for his tactical acumen.
Looking Ahead: Potential Roster Changes?
Reports are circulating regarding potential roster adjustments during the upcoming transfer window. Blitar Kawentar suggests that the club is considering bringing in Ramadan Sananta to bolster their attacking options. Bruno Moreira, a current squad member, has reportedly faced criticism from supporters following the recent performances.
While no official announcements have been made, the possibility of new signings indicates that the club is actively seeking solutions to address their shortcomings. Tavares has acknowledged the need for squad depth and has hinted at potential reinforcements.
It’s important to note that the Indonesian Super League is becoming increasingly competitive, with several teams investing heavily in their squads. Persebaya will need to strengthen their roster and improve their tactical approach if they hope to challenge for the title.
Baggott Returns to National Team Consideration
Away from club matters, Indonesian defender Elkan Baggott has been recalled to the provisional national team squad, as reported by Google News via TWTD. This represents a positive development for the player, who has been seeking more consistent playing time.
Baggott’s inclusion in the national team squad could provide a boost to his confidence and help him regain his form. His return to the national setup also demonstrates the depth of talent within Indonesian football.
What’s Next for Persebaya?
Persebaya Surabaya will use the break in the league schedule to regroup and address the issues that have plagued their recent performances. The focus will be on improving their finishing, strengthening their defense, and fostering greater consistency within the squad. The club has not yet announced a date for their next match, but fans will be eagerly awaiting their return to the pitch.
The coming weeks will be crucial for Persebaya as they look to salvage their season and compete for a place in the top four. The club’s management and coaching staff will need to make some difficult decisions in order to turn things around. The support of the passionate Persebaya fanbase will undoubtedly be vital in this endeavor.
What do you think Persebaya needs to do to get back on track? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
