Carlos Pena’s Tactical Use of False Nine Formation as Persija Jakarta Draws Against Persebaya Surabaya

Carlos Pena revealed the reasoning behind using a false nine formation when Persija Jakarta drew 1-1 against Persebaya Surabaya at Gelora Bung Karno Main Stadium.

The Spanish coach opted for a trio of Witan Sulaeman, Ryo Matsumura, and Dony Tri Pamungkas as his attacking line — a decision made after carefully considering Persebaya’s defensive characteristics.

The absence of Gustavo Almeida due to red card accumulation and the benching of Marko Simic led Persija Jakarta to rely on short passing play that successfully troubled Bajul Ijo’s backline.

Rayhan Hannan, who came on as a substitute for the injured Witan Sulaeman, managed to open the scoring for Persija, but Flavio Silva later equalized for Persebaya, leading the match to end in a 1-1 draw.