Persebaya vs Borneo FC: Shin Sang-gyu Maintains Green Crocodile's Focus in Crucial Match

Persebaya Surabaya enters a crucial match with unusual dynamics. Ahead of the duel against league leaders Klasemen Borneo FC in week 15 of the BRI Super League 2025/2026, the management of Bajul Ijo (Green Crocodile) appointed Shin Sang-gyu to accompany the team from the touchline at Gelora Bung Tomo Stadium (GBT), Saturday 20 December 2025.

This decision was made following the absence of caretaker coach Uston Nawawi due to an accumulation of cards. In this situation, fitness coach Shin has been entrusted with the important role of ensuring physical readiness while maintaining player intensity and focus throughout the match.

The absence of two main pillars, Bruno Moreira and Francisco Rivera, presents its own challenge for Persebaya. 

Shin did not deny that these losses affect the team's strength, but he assessed the players' response during preparation as quite encouraging.

"The players' spirit is a key asset to secure full points," said Shin at a press conference at GBT Stadium, Friday 19 December 2025.

Shin's experience at the international level is an added value. He was once part of the official staff of the Indonesian National Team (Timnas Indonesia) during the coaching era of Shin Tae-yong before joining Persebaya since early June 2025. 

This background makes him view this situation as a professional challenge that must be faced with full responsibility.

Although only serving as an assistant on the sidelines, Shin is aware his role is not light. He emphasized that player focus and motivation are crucial aspects, especially when facing the strongest team in the league.

Similar optimism comes from the players' camp. Persebaya defender Leo Lelis expressed confidence ahead of the match against Borneo FC, his former club. 

According to him, the opponent's status as league leaders does not dampen the spirit of the home team.

"Like the coach, I am optimistic we can get three points. The team spirit is very good," said Lelis.

Borneo FC arrives in Surabaya with high confidence after collecting 33 points from 13 matches, the result of 11 wins and two losses. They occupy the top spot in the provisional Klasemen of the BRI Super League 2025/2026. 

Conversely, Persebaya remains stuck in mid-table, occupying ninth place with 18 points from 13 matches.

The match at GBT is not just a test of tactics and physicality, but also mentality. With Shin Sang-gyu on the touchline, Persebaya hopes to find new energy to challenge the dominance of the league leaders and pave the way back into the upper table competition.(ANTARA)