PSS Sleman Sinks to Bottom of Standings: Huistra Cites Bad Luck, But Reality Tells a Different Story

PSS Sleman has not been able to escape its slump at the start of the BRI Super League 2026/2027 season. Facing Dewa United at Banten International Stadium on Sunday (20/9/2026), Super Elja surrendered 1-2, recording their third consecutive defeat without a single point.

Dewa United scored two goals within nine minutes in the second half. Taisei Marukawa opened the scoring in the 49th minute, followed by Carlos Iury who doubled the lead in the 58th minute. PSS only managed to reduce the deficit through Christophe Nduwarugira in the 72nd minute. Despite having several chances to equalize, the 1-2 scoreline held until the final whistle.

This result places PSS in 16th position in the temporary standings. As a promoted team, Laskar Sembada indeed faced a tough early schedule. However, three consecutive defeats remain a danger signal that their adaptation to the top-tier competition has not gone smoothly.

PSS coach, Pieter Huistra, assessed the match as balanced and emphasized that small details made the difference. According to him, the two goals conceded by PSS were a result of unfortunate situations. "We were a bit unlucky with the two goals conceded. We had chances, including at the end of the match, to equalize the score to 2-2," Huistra said after the match.

"We have already played against top-tier teams like Bali United and Madura United. So, we faced three tough opponents. For us, as a newly promoted team, immediately encountering strong teams at the start of the season certainly requires adjustment." — Pieter Huistra

Huistra also admitted that Dewa United played exactly as his team predicted. "Dewa played exactly as we expected. They are at the top of the standings for a reason," he added. This statement implies that tactically PSS was prepared, but execution on the field still left gaps.

For PSS, a tough start to the season could actually have been anticipated. As a promoted team, they immediately faced established teams like Bali United, Madura United, and Dewa United. However, with no points at all, psychological pressure is starting to loom. Management and the coaching staff are urged to quickly find a formula to avoid sinking further into the relegation zone.

On the other hand, this victory solidifies Dewa United's position as one of the main forces this season. Their consistency at the top of the standings demonstrates squad depth and the effectiveness of the coach's strategy. For PSS, a match against a team like Dewa United can be a valuable lesson on the importance of maximizing crucial moments.

Moving forward, PSS Sleman must immediately make improvements. The upcoming schedule will be a test of whether they can bounce back or sink further. Will Huistra be able to turn the situation around, or will this poor start cast a shadow over the entire season?