Marko Simic sidelined at Persija Jakarta despite main striker absence

Marko Simic — Persija Jakarta‘s veteran striker — faces a challenging situation after coach Carlos Pena chose not to field him in the match against Persebaya Surabaya.

Despite main striker Gustavo Almeida‘s absence due to red card suspension, Pena opted for a formation without a true striker — utilizing three small-built players in the forward line.

The 37-year-old Croatian was previously Macan Kemayoran’s hero, leading the team to the 2018 Liga 1 title and becoming top scorer in 2019. However, his slowing pace has now led supporters to question his on-field contribution.

Simic’s decline in performance is evident — his speed no longer matches the demands of an increasingly competitive Liga 1.