Persik Kediri Use FIFA Matchday Break to Build Fitness for Packed October Schedule

Persik Kediri are using the long break in the BRI Super League 2026/2027 to sharpen the players' physical condition. Coach Marcos Reina believes improved fitness is the key to facing a packed schedule in October, with four matches ahead, three of them against top-table teams.

The competition break comes because of the FIFA Matchday period in September-October, which also sees the Indonesia national team play in the FIFA ASEAN Cup 2026. Rather than giving the players time off, Persik are holding intensive training sessions to reach peak fitness. Reina said the players' physical condition is already good, but can still be optimized. "We need to use this week to get even fitter. Because the upcoming schedule is packed and we need prime physical vitality," he said.

The October schedule awaiting Persik is indeed challenging. Besides facing Madura United at home, the White Tigers will travel to the home grounds of Persija and Persib. The two away matches against big teams require extra stamina, especially with the high-intensity playing style Reina has implemented. The Spanish coach stressed that aggressive and spartan play in defense and attack drains a lot of energy. "We want to be a team that is intense in every moment. For that, we must have a team in the best condition," he added.

In the fitness tests carried out, Imanol Garcia and Ernesto Gomes showed the best performances. Reina hopes the other players can match that fitness standard. "From the test results, Imanol Garcia and Ernesto Gomez scored the best. We are working to ensure the other players can also reach the peak fitness we want," he explained. Although they enjoyed a short break after the 1-1 draw with Arema FC, the players are considered to remain in prime condition.

Indonesian context: FIFA Matchday breaks are often used by Liga 1 clubs to improve fitness and tactics. Persik Kediri, who played spartan football in their first three matches, recognize the importance of rotation and fitness in a tight competition. With a packed schedule, managing training time becomes crucial to avoid excessive fatigue. This step is also in line with other clubs' efforts to maintain performance amid a busy calendar.

Going forward, Persik's success in getting through October will depend heavily on physical readiness and squad depth. If they can pick up points from the tough matches, their position in the top table can be maintained. However, if their fitness drops, poor results could haunt them. Will Reina's strategy pay off, or will it backfire? Only time will tell, but thorough preparation is the main asset.