Persija Often Draws, Mauricio Souza: No Team Is Better Than Us
Source: Persija Jakarta
Persija Jakarta coach Mauricio Souza emphasized that his team continues to show competitive performance despite not achieving optimal results in their recent matches in the BRI Super League.
Souza made this statement during a press conference after the match against Dewa United at Jakarta International Stadium on Sunday, March 15, 2026.
According to the Brazilian coach, he understands the disappointment felt by Persija supporters. However, he believes the performance of the Kemayoran Tigers on the field remains competitive and even better than their opponents.
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“No team came and played better than us. Even today we were better than Dewa,” said Souza.
In the latest match, Persija had to settle for a point after a 1-1 Draw against Dewa United. This result continues their less-than-optimal trend, following a 2-2 draw against Borneo FC on March 3rd.
Souza stressed that he does not evaluate the team's performance solely based on the final score. For him, analyzing the gameplay process on the field is far more important.
“I don't analyze matches based on the result. I analyze based on how the game unfolded,” he stated.
The 49-year-old coach also responded to various criticisms circulating on social media regarding Persija's performance. He asserted that he only focuses on his work and responsibilities within the team.
“I don't control what you say or what others say. I only control what I do,” he said.
Souza even challenged Football observers to point out a match where Persija genuinely performed worse than their opponent.
“Please find one match where the opponent played better than us, then we can talk about strategy,” stated Souza.
Nevertheless, he acknowledged that the unsatisfactory results naturally cause disappointment among supporters. According to him, this disappointment is also felt by the entire team.
“The supporters' disappointment is our disappointment too. We work every day, training under the heat and Rain, to bring joy to everyone,” he said.
