Persija Jakarta failed to continue their positive run after being outplayed by Dewa United in the ongoing Super League 2026/2027. This result came as a surprise, as the Macan Kemayoran were previously considered strong favourites to defeat Dewa United following convincing performances in their prior matches, most notably against Persik Kediri.
This defeat raised questions over the squad selection decisions made by Persija Head Coach Shin Tae-yong (STY). Football Analyst Ophan Lamara assessed that STY is yet to settle on a consistently performing core of first team players to maintain stable team form.
During the discussion on Itsme Podcast alongside fellow Football Analyst Erwin Fitriansyah, Ophan Lamara highlighted that Shin Tae-yong implemented drastic changes to Persija's starting eleven compared to the line-up that faced Persik Kediri.
READ ALSO
Persija hasn't thought about Persib yet, Mauricio Souza emphasizes full focus on Persijap Jepara.
Dewa United vs Persija: A Fiery Duel as Persib Battles It Out in Asian Competitions.
Persija Falls, Arema Has the Opportunity to Uncover the Weaknesses of the Macan Kemayoran
According to Lamara, the decision to rotate five positions or players in the starting line-up is highly questionable, especially since the previous squad had already demonstrated solid form and proven themselves as a competitive unit.
Ophan also pointed out that Memija, who started against Persik Kediri, was dropped from the starting side for this match, while Loncar retained his place in the first eleven.
These frequent changes indicate STY is still searching for his ideal team formula. Persija has still not established a consistent, reliable winning core, particularly when going up against high-quality opposition.
Erwin Fitriansyah shared this same view. He acknowledged that Dewa United possess a talented, well-drilled squad, however Persija's failure to field their strongest available line-up significantly disrupted match balance.
Erwin noted that Kolinger's absence forced Rizky to cover his position, an adjustment that failed to create an effective defensive partnership. The loss of Fabio from midfield was also heavily felt, particularly for maintaining structure and smooth ball circulation for Persija.
Alongside player rotations, Shin Tae-yong's tactical formation change also came under scrutiny. Erwin explained that deploying two out-and-out strikers has become increasingly rare in modern Football, as it requires major reconfiguration of all supporting positions behind the front line. Systems using a single central striker are now standard for competitive top-flight football.
Arly's unavailability also had a noticeable negative impact on Persija's performance. The combined effect of the formation switch, mass player rotations, and missing key personnel meant the Macan Kemayoran were unable to operate anywhere near their full potential.
The situation deteriorated further when Persija were reduced to 10 men following a red card. This made it exponentially harder for the side to chase the deficit while retaining any organised tactical structure on the pitch.
Ophan also added that Persija's defensive line was not fielded in its strongest configuration against Dewa United. He openly questioned the logic of implementing such extensive squad rotations precisely when facing an opponent capable of applying sustained, high-level pressure.
That said, the Super League title race remains wide open. Persija still hold a slight advantage based on their prior results and the calibre of opposition they have already faced this season. Next up, the Macan Kemayoran will face another critical test when they take on Persebaya Surabaya.
With point gaps between all competing teams narrowing rapidly, every single dropped point now carries major implications for league Standings.
For Ophan Lamara, Shin Tae-yong still faces a considerable challenge ahead. Establishing consistency in starting line-up selection, locking in the best working team composition, and maintaining squad balance are all critical priorities if Persija are to avoid squandering their momentum further.
This full breakdown of Persija's performance, Shin Tae-yong's rotation calls and tactical decisions against Dewa United was discussed by Erwin Fitriansyah and Ophan Lamara on the ITSMe Podcast. The recording took place at Sentul Studio, Bogor on Monday 2 November 2026, hosted by Pudila and Gilang Respaty.
