Persija Jakarta secured a 2-1 victory over PSM Makassar in week 22 of the Super League at Jakarta International Stadium on Friday, February 20, 2026. PSM coach Tomas Trucha criticized the non-functioning video assistant referee (VAR), which he said affected the game's fairness. The win lifted Persija to 47 points, level with leaders Persib.
The match at Jakarta International Stadium was intensely contested. Persija dominated from the start, controlling the ball and setting the pace, though PSM's solid defense hindered their attacks. PSM responded with counter-presses that kept Persija's backline alert.
At the 30th minute, Ajaraie Alaedine headed in a goal from Allano's pass, giving Persija a 1-0 lead. Six minutes later, Rizky Pratama's shot was not fully saved by Andritany Ardhiyasa, allowing Sheriddin Boboev to equalize at 1-1.
In the second half, Persija thought they had extended their lead through Maxwell Souza, but referee Agung Setiawan disallowed it for handball. At the 67th minute, PSM goalkeeper Reza Arya's error was capitalized on by Maxwell Souza's header for the 2-1 winner.
Post-match, PSM coach Tomas Trucha lamented the inactive VAR. "We were informed during warm-up that VAR was inactive and being repaired. We waited until the game progressed, even until halftime, but there was no certainty," he said. He stressed VAR consistency for fair play: "If VAR is used in the league, then every match each week should use VAR. This is important for fair play."
Trucha assessed his team as competitive and deserving of at least a draw. "The players are certainly disappointed because we had at least a chance for one point. Football is about maximizing opportunities. We made one mistake and were immediately punished," he stated. PSM adopted a more aggressive high press, differing from their previous encounter.
The victory propelled Persija to second in the temporary standings, displacing Borneo FC.
