PSS Sleman Stuck at the Bottom as Huistra Flags Two Fatal Weaknesses

PSS Sleman have yet to find the form expected of them in the BRI Super League 2026/2027. In seven matches played, Laskar Sembada have collected just four points—from one win, one draw, and five defeats—leaving them 15th in the provisional standings.

Coach Pieter Huistra does not deny that his team has two major tasks to resolve quickly: shoring up the defense and sharpening the attack. Through week seven, PSS have scored 10 goals but conceded 13. A goal difference of minus three reflects the imbalance between attacking and defending.

“We have to be better in defense, tighter, and prevent opponents from delivering crosses and taking shots,” Huistra said, as quoted by Bola.com. He added that his team often perform better in the second half but need to start matches with the same intensity and sharpness from the first minute.

The 1-2 defeat to Borneo FC at Maguwoharjo Stadium on Tuesday (27/10/2026) was a clear example of PSS's problems. Despite creating chances, the hosts failed to convert them, while the back line switched off and allowed the opposition to score easily. Huistra recognizes that in a competition as tight as the Super League, every small mistake is punished.

Up front, Gustavo Tocantins is in the spotlight. The Brazilian striker who was PSS's top scorer last season has yet to find the net this season. Even so, his contribution is still felt through the four assists he has provided. Huistra admits Gustavo is frustrated by the situation, but the Dutch coach remains optimistic that goals will come with hard work.

“He knows the situation, he is frustrated. The only way is to work hard. I believe the goals will come, but he has to realize that he is now playing in the Super League,” Huistra said.

PSS's goal production is indeed spread evenly. Hiromu Tanaka, Melvyn Lorenzen, and Matheus Fornazari have each scored three goals, while Christophe Nduwarugira has contributed one. However, reliance on midfielders and wingers has left the attack less sharp in the penalty area. Huistra stressed that the new players must quickly adapt to the higher standard of the competition.

“Everyone who watched last year felt the Super League was more competitive. The new players have to give more,” he said.

With their position still far from expectations, PSS Sleman face two consecutive away matches that will be decisive. Huistra stressed that his team must pick up points from both games to keep their hopes of a revival alive. If they fail, pressure on the coach and management will grow, especially given Laskar Sembada's ambition to compete in mid-table.

The question is whether PSS can fix their leaky defense and rediscover Gustavo Tocantins's sharpness before the gap to the safety zone widens further. The answer will become clear in the coming weeks.