PSIM Yogyakarta Chase First Win as Guntur Cahyo Warns of Borneo FC's Squad Depth

PSIM Yogyakarta will host Borneo FC in the eighth week of the 2026/2027 BRI Super League at Sultan Agung Stadium, Bantul, on Sunday (1/11/2026) afternoon WIB. For the hosts, this duel is not just an ordinary match but a golden chance to end a winless run that has left them at the bottom of the table.

PSIM caretaker coach Guntur Cahyo Utomo said the team's preparations had gone smoothly after a packed run of matches. He stressed that the players had recovered physically and mentally, and hoped the match against Borneo would mark a turning point for Laskar Mataram.

"We are taking this match seriously. The past week has been enough time to restore the players' condition after a tiring trip. I hope this will be the peak of their performance," Guntur said at a pre-match press conference on Saturday (31/10/2026).

PSIM currently sit 17th with two points from seven matches. Borneo FC, meanwhile, are 13th with nine points. The seven-point gap is a warning for the hosts that the mission to claim their first win will not be easy.

Guntur acknowledged that the visitors hold a significant advantage, especially in squad depth. Borneo FC are known to be competing in an Asian competition as well as the domestic league, giving them plenty of quality player options. "They are a strong team with a wide rotation. Many players can threaten in our third of the pitch. That is what we are anticipating by designing a specific strategy," he explained.

Beyond the collective strength, Guntur also highlighted Reva Adi Utama, a defender currently playing for Borneo FC on loan from PSIM. Reva was PSIM's captain last season and an important pillar. Nevertheless, Guntur was unwilling to dwell on excessive worry. "We know Reva's quality, but we also have a plan to contain his movement and exploit any gaps that may appear," he added.

On the other side, Reva Adi Utama admitted he was sad to see PSIM, the club that loaned him out, struggling in the relegation zone. However, as a professional, he will try to perform at his best for Borneo FC. The situation adds an emotional dimension to the match, where loyalty and professionalism collide.

For PSIM, this match is crucial to keeping their hopes of surviving in the competition alive. A defeat would push them further from safety, while a win could be a momentum for revival. Guntur stressed that his team would not only focus on defending but also look for gaps to attack Borneo's defense. "We try to get into their defensive zone and create chances," he said.

The big question is whether PSIM can turn the pressure into positive energy, or whether Borneo FC will sink further into inconsistent form. The answer will be seen on the green pitch of Bantul.