Arema FC employed a low block strategy to hold Malut United to a 1-1 draw at Stadion Kanjuruhan in Malang during a Super League 2025/2026 match on Friday. Julian Guevara scored for Arema in the 26th minute, with David da Silva equalizing from a penalty in the 41st.
Arema FC drew 1-1 with Malut United at Stadion Kanjuruhan in Malang on Friday in a Super League 2025/2026 match. Julian Guevara scored for Arema in the 26th minute from a Gustavo Franca corner. Malut United equalized through David da Silva's 41st-minute penalty.
Arema FC coach Marcos Santos used a low block strategy due to key absences: Dalberto Luan, Pablo Oliveira, and Matheus Balde with red cards; Betinho Filho and Joel Vinicius from yellow card accumulation; and injury to Walisson Maia. Santos said the defensive tactic, combined with quick transitions, countered Malut's full squad including David da Silva, Ciro Alves, and Tyronne del Pino.
The second half was cautious, featuring chances like Lucas Frigeri's save on Yance Sayuri's 70th-minute shot and Angga Saputro's stop on Gustavo Franca's 81st-minute effort. Marcos remains optimistic about a top-table finish with eight games left, including against Persib Bandung and Persebaya Surabaya.
Marcos called for full support from Aremania and Aremanita fans. "We will fight to get many points. I want supporters to fill the stadium," he said.
